Ghana's EPA Proposes Copper Nano-Remediation for Galamsey-Impacted Rivers Despite Environmental Risks
The Environmental Protection Authority of Ghana (EPA) plans to use copper-based nano liquid technology to remediate heavy metal contamination in the Birim River and other affected rivers. While the technology aims to address pollution from illegal gold mining, concerns arise regarding the toxic effects on aquatic ecosystems and long-term persistence of copper nanoparticles. The EPA's approach has been criticized for focusing on symptoms of pollution without addressing the root cause of galamsey activities.
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The EPA of Ghana proposed deploying copper-based nano liquid technology on the Birim River and other rivers impacted by illegal gold mining (galamsey). The aim is to remediate contamination from heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, and cyanide.
However, copper nanoparticles pose risks due to their toxicity to aquatic life and long-term environmental persistence, potentially lasting over 50 years in water and sediments. The technology's effectiveness is questioned as it may disrupt essential microbial activities and contribute to biomagnification in the food chain. Critics argue that without addressing the ongoing sources of pollution from galamsey, any remediation efforts may be ineffective and introduce new hazards.
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