Impacts of Artisanal Mining on Air Quality and One Health

Artisanal mining worldwide significantly contributes to the degradation of ecosystems vital for sustaining diverse habitats and wildlife. These ecosystems, including mangrove forests, lowland rainforests, and freshwater swamp forests, are increasingly threatened by deforestation, overhunting, bush burning, and intensive agriculture. In particular, artisanal crude oil processing, which is widespread in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, leads to extensive environmental damage and exposure to airborne chemicals from crude oil. Artisanal miners, who often reside in these areas, typically use essential equipment for mining, despite the considerable occupational and environmental health hazards posed to both biodiversity and the environment. While artisanal refining provides socioeconomic benefits like job creation, its harmful impact on air quality and public health is a significant concern. This chapter highlights the elevated levels of particulate matter and toxic gases, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide, released during artisanal mining operations, contributing to air pollution. Inhalation of these pollutants can cause various respiratory issues, such as chest tightness, coughing with thick sputum, persistent nasal congestion, wheezing, and chest pain that worsens with deep breathing. Additionally, exposure to these pollutants may lead to congenital disabilities and discomfort in the sensory organs. Addressing the risks associated with traditional crude oil refining methods in the Niger Delta is crucial. This requires granting licenses to artisanal crude oil refiners, enforcing Nigerian environmental and petroleum regulations to oversee their activities, and gradually raising public awareness about the dangers of crude oil refining. Mitigating these risks is essential for protecting the region’s environment and public health. Meaningful progress in preventing environmental degradation and maintaining public health can only be achieved through the active involvement of communities, leveraging their resources and knowledge.