Initiative Aims to Nix Mercury in Gold Mining

RAPAPORT... Nonprofit organization Mercury Free Mining (MFM) will trial new equipment that may eliminate mercury in gold processing.MFM will begin scientific testing of Goldrop, a new separation process created by Sluice Goose Industries. The experiment will take place in conjunction with the Ghana National Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners Association (GNASSM) and the University of Miners and Technology in Tarkwa, Ghana. Miners in three artisanal mining communities in the Ashanti region will use the Goldrop equipment during daily mining activities, and the results will be monitored and documented, MFM executive director Toby Pomeroy noted. The field testing will take place over a 10-day period beginning January 8, the groups said last week. "We may be witnessing the beginning of the end of toxic mercury in gold mining," Pomeroy added.MFM is seeking $25,000 in donations to complete the testing and documentation.In July, the group organized a global challenge to the industry, promising a $1 million prize for an idea that could eliminate the use of mercury in gold mining.Image: Gold miners in the Ivory Coast. (Mercury Free Mining)