(IDEX Online) - The non-profit organization Mercury Free Mining (MFM) will test a new technique that could end the use of toxic mercury in artisanal gold mining.
The new technique has been developed by Sluice Goose Industries and uses the Goldrop gold separating processor, which it says is significantly more efficient than traditional gold panning.
The process will be tested over a 10-day period in partnership with the Ghana National Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners Association (GNASSM) and the University of Mines and Technology in Tarkwa, Ghana.
"MFM is thrilled to be leading the scientific tests of this gold processing system in Ghana, West Africa. We may be witnessing the beginning of the end of toxic mercury use in gold mining," said the organization's executive director Toby Pomeroy.
"Miners in three artisanal mining communities in the Ashanti region will use the Goldrop equipment in daily, real-world applications. The results will be scientifically monitored, documented, and reported on the MFM website blog page and social media," added Pomeroy.
Artisanal gold mining releases nearly 8,000 lbs (3629 kgs) of the toxic metal into the environment every day. Mercury pollution, which is increasing worldwide, has devastating effects on the physiological and neurological development of unborn children and infants.
MFM has launched a fundraising campaign to help meet the $25,000 goal to complete the testing and documentation process.
In July, MFM launched a challenge offering $1 million prize to anyone who discovers an affordable and reliable alternative to mercury in mining.