ACCRA: Dr. Ishmael Quaicoe, a lecturer at the University of Mines and Technology and an expert in mercury-free gold processing technologies, has called for an urgent shift away from mercury-based mining practices due to their adverse health and environmental impacts. The ongoing use of mercury in artisanal small-scale mining poses significant risks to both miners' health and local ecosystems. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Quaicoe emphasized Ghana's commitment to international agreements, such as the Minamata Convention, which advocates for the gradual elimination of mercury in small-scale gold mining. His remarks were made during sensitization workshops organized by the planetGOLD Ghana project. These workshops, held in selected districts of the Ashanti and Central Regions, aim to raise awareness of mercury exposure risks among artisanal and small-scale gold mining actors and promote mercury-free mining practices in line with Ghana's obligations under the Minamata Convention. Dr. Quaicoe highlighted t he availability of mercury-free alternatives for processing gold, such as gravimetric separation, flotation, and cyanidation. These methods offer safer, more sustainable options for gold recovery, potentially leading to lower long-term costs, higher gold recovery rates, and improved health outcomes for miners. However, he acknowledged challenges in adopting these technologies, including resistance to change and limited access to equipment. To facilitate this transition, the University of Mines and Technology provides training and capacity-building. Dr. Quaicoe noted that other countries have successfully implemented mercury-free technologies and called for greater support from the government, NGOs, and international organizations to expand these initiatives. He urged miners to adopt these methods, considering the long-term benefits to their health and the environment. Mr. Lovelace Sarpong, the Project Coordinator for planetGOLD Ghana, stated that the project's goals include minimizing mercury-related risks in the ASGM sector by promoting sound chemical management, eliminating pollution hazards, and improving financial inclusion and formal economy transitions. The project also aims to strengthen national and jurisdictional capacities to enhance Ghana's compliance with the Minamata Convention, including national environmental and formalization policies. Mr. Prempeh Adarkwah Yiadom, the Environmental Protection Agency's Area Head for Obuasi, underscored the importance of government regulations and the EPA's role in ensuring compliance within the ASGM sector. He encouraged miners to prioritize environmental stewardship to gain community trust and secure a Social License to Operate, reaffirming the Agency's commitment to enforcing the Minamata Convention.