Kumasi: The planetGOLD Ghana project has launched a series of awareness initiatives in the Ashanti and Central Regions to educate artisanal and small-scale miners on the dangers of mercury use and promote mercury-free mining technologies. According to Ghana News Agency, the awareness campaigns conducted by planetGOLD Ghana targeted artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) communities in several districts including Amansie Central, Asante Akim North, and Bekwai among others. These initiatives are part of efforts to align with Ghana's obligations under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, aiming to reduce mercury exposure and advocate for the adoption of safer, mercury-free mining practices. The project focused on several key areas including the health impacts of mercury, the adoption of the CRAFT Code for responsible mining, gender inclusivity in mining operations, and the importance of obtaining a social license to operate. Enhanced understanding of these areas is expected to promote the formalization of the ASGM sector and support the transition to environmentally responsible and economically viable mining practices. Mr. Lovelace Sarpong, Project Coordinator for planetGOLD Ghana, explained that the initiative seeks to mitigate the risks associated with mercury use by improving chemical management and eliminating pollution. The project also emphasizes the importance of financial inclusion and aims to strengthen national capacity to fulfill international environmental obligations. Support for the project comes from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Its components include optimizing formalization strategies, accelerating responsible supply chains, enhancing the uptake of mercury-free technologies, and fostering local capacity building. Additionally, Mr. Dawood Abbas of the Environmental Protection Agency highlighted the critical role of government regulations in maintaining compliance wit hin the ASGM sector. He stressed the importance of environmental stewardship among miners to secure community trust and a social license to operate. Local government officials also acknowledged the sector's significance to the economy and urged stakeholders to embrace mercury-free technologies to safeguard public health and the environment. These efforts underscore a comprehensive approach to improving mining practices while addressing environmental and health concerns associated with mercury use.