Abstract
M.A.
This mini-dissertation establishes the extent to which small scale artisanal
diamond mining impacts on the environment. There has, in the past, been
research undertaken specifically on the water related impacts of small scale
artisanal diamond mining. This study however, looks at the environment
holistically, and gauges the total degradation to the receiving environment.
Small scale artisanal diamond mining is considered to be a major contributor to
the local economy and improved quality of life for the communities
participating in this mining and is being actively supported through the National
minerals and mining policies.
It is for this reason that it was deemed imperative to understand the nature of the
mining and the associated environmental impacts so that the outcome of this
report could be used to inform decision makers when considering the licencing
and management of artisanal diamond mining operations. In order to achieve
the aim of the study, a literature review needed to be conducted focusing on the
nature of small scale diamond mining operations, its influence on the social and
economic spheres and the known environmental damage induced by such
mining activities. However, in order to internalize the impacts, the literature
review also drew a comparison with large scale artisanal diamond mining. The
problems identified at the four sample sites were evaluated through the OWL
Risk Assessment method to gauge the high risks and major impacts.
This study showed that water pollution, biodiversity depletion and waste
generation were some of the main problems traversing all four sites. In all cases
assessed, artisanal diamond mining impacts on the water regime as mining takes
place within the riverine environment. This study also underscored the fact that
there is very little, if any rehabilitation, of disturbed areas and this impacts upon
fitness for use of the receiving environment in the long term.
An urgent need exists for monitoring and regulating artisanal diamond mining
so as to reduce the impacts to the receiving environment. More enforced
regulation will also ensure that the mining operations practice responsibly with
due care for the environment coupled to a legal undertaking for rehabilitation of
the mining area.