The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Atlantic Lithium Mining Company have affirmed their commitment to conducting comprehensive impact assessments in communities affected by mining activities, aiming to prevent adverse consequences in their catchment areas. This pledge comes in response to the experiences of numerous mineral-rich communities that have suffered from decades of mineral exploration without commensurate benefits.
During a public hearing on the ‘Scoping Report and Draft Terms of Reference’ for the Ewoyaa Lithium mining and processing project, Mr Ransford Sekyi, Deputy Executive Director in charge of Operations at EPA, and Mr Len Kolff, Head of Business Development and Chief Geologist of Atlantic Lithium, reassured stakeholders of their dedication to ensuring responsible environmental management.
The event, attended by traditional authorities, elders, and members of affected communities from the Mfantseman and Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese districts, served as a platform for soliciting input on the project’s environmental impact assessment. Communities such as Ewoyaa, Mankessim, and others were represented, highlighting the significance of community engagement in the mining process.
Scoping, as a critical early step in environmental impact assessment, involves identifying potential environmental impacts and opportunities associated with a proposed project. Both EPA and Atlantic Lithium emphasized the importance of responsible resource management and ecosystem protection throughout the project’s lifespan.
Mr. Sekyi outlined the readiness for commercial lithium mining following six years of exploratory activities, contingent upon the approval of an environmental impact assessment report by the EPA. He urged residents to seize opportunities presented by lithium mining while remaining vigilant against potential negative impacts such as land litigation and community resettlements.
Mr Kolff lauded Ghana‘s first lithium discovery as a significant achievement and pledged to collaborate with stakeholders to deliver long-term benefits to affected communities. He emphasized the company’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and trust in its interactions with communities, pledging to sustain these values as operations progress.
During the question-and-answer session, residents and chiefs raised concerns about land acquisitions, compensations, resettlement plans, and alternative livelihoods. The dialogue underscored the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes related to mining activities.
Overall, the joint commitment of EPA and Atlantic Lithium signals a proactive approach to environmental stewardship and community engagement, aiming to ensure sustainable development and mutual benefit for all stakeholders involved.
