Environmental Threat Assessment Framework for Mining Activities in Guinea: An Integrated Approach for Sustainable Development.

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the environmental consequences of mining activities in boke bauxite mining areas and the Kerouane iron mining project in Guinea using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative and qualitative data. A reference matrix was used to evaluate the impact of the mining activities, classifying them as negligible, moderate, or significant. Data were collected from October 2022 to January 2023 by assessing their impact on water pollution, soil, noise, air quality, vegetation, fauna, and flora. These findings indicate concerns regarding the water pH, electrical conductivity, and turbidity in both the Boke and Kerouane regions. The soil composition analysis revealed the presence of Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn in both the Boke and Kerouane project areas. Noise levels exceeded the guideline levels and substantial amounts of particulate matter (PM) were detected, with high levels of PM10 in mining operations. The Kerouane Iron Project resulted in the direct loss of 2929 ha of natural habitats and 466 ha of modified habitats, with the extraction of approximately 1.291 billion tons of ore anticipated over a 22-year mine lifespan. This study proposes an environmental threat assessment framework that integrates technical and human activity data to evaluate the environmental impacts of mining activities comprehensively. To promote sustainable development and minimize the negative impacts of mining, an integrated index of economic and environmental performance in the mining sector is recommended, along with collaboration between researchers and policymakers to develop effective climate-change mitigation strategies.