There is a call for the government to update the Minerals and Mining Act. This change aims to stop mercury smuggling. It also seeks to end mercury use in artisanal and small scale gold mining across Ghana.
Stakeholders believe an effective law change is needed. They suggest it should include stricter penalties for those who illegally use or trade mercury.
Mercury is a substance that causes harm to the environment. Its widespread use has led to environmental problems.
The revised law would make it harder for people to use mercury in mining without permission. It would also target those involved in its illegal trade.
This legal update is seen as a way to protect Ghana's environment. It focuses on reducing pollution caused by mining activities.
The proposed changes address concerns about environmental damage. This damage is linked to the current practices in some gold mining operations.