A geography expert, Professor Alex Barima Owusu, has cautioned Ghanaians against activities that contribute to environmental degradation, stressing the need for sustainable management of the country’s natural resources.
Speaking on Bryt FM’s “Adekyee Mu Nsem” morning show with Kwamina Sam Binney, Professor Owusu explained that while mining, particularly with gold, has become a means of livelihood for many unemployed youth, it also poses serious environmental challenges. He noted that although the search for gold provides short-term economic relief, it often leads to the destruction of forests, water bodies, and farmlands.
He further observed that unemployment and poor economic management are among the reasons some citizens engage in illegal mining activities. According to him, the government must create sustainable job opportunities and improve the living conditions of citizens to reduce the dependence on harmful environmental practices.
Professor Owusu urged policymakers to design strategies that balance economic development with environmental protection, emphasizing that Ghana’s natural resources are national heritage that must be preserved for future generations.
Ghana over the years has seen massive degredation to the environment with expects predicting serious effects in the next few years if nothing is done to end the ‘cartel’ of illegal mining.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Amuzu Priscilla
