Impact of Illegal Mining

Illegal mining activities cause severe environmental damage, including:

• •Deforestation and habitat destruction
• •Water pollution from chemicals and waste
• •Soil erosion and land degradation
• •Air pollution from dust and emissions
• •Loss of biodiversity

Illegal mining undermines the legitimate mining sector and national economy:

• •Loss of government revenue from taxes and royalties
• •Unfair competition with legal mining operations
• •Damage to infrastructure and public facilities
• •Reduced foreign investment in the mining sector

Illegal mining activities have negative social consequences:

• •Health risks to local communities from pollution
• •Displacement of communities
• •Exploitation of workers, including child labor
• •Increased crime and insecurity in mining areas
• •Conflict with legitimate land users