The Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves Regulations, 2022) L.

I 2462 seeks to make a

significant contribution towards addressing the problem of illegal mining (galamsey) in forest
reserves in Ghana. The regulation aims to provide a legal framework for mining in forest reserves,
which has been a major source of environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity.

One of the main contributions of this regulation is that it seeks to provide a clear and comprehensive
set of rules and guidelines for mining in forest reserves. As a result, mining companies and
individuals engaged in mining in forest reserves will be required to obtain permits and comply with
environmental and safety regulations set out in the regulation. This will help to ensure that mining
activities are conducted in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.

Another contribution of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves Regulations, 2022)
L.I 2462 is that it seeks to address the problem of land degradation and deforestation caused by
illegal mining in forest reserves. The regulation requires that only a portion of the forest reserve is
designated for mining activities, and efforts must be made to rehabilitate areas where mining has
taken place. This will help to restore degraded areas, maintain the biodiversity of the forest, and
reduce the impact of mining activities on the environment and the ecosystem services that forests
provide.

The regulation also seeks to ensure that mining companies provide adequate compensation to
affected communities and undertake mitigation measures to address the negative impacts of mining
on communities and the environment. This will help to address the problem of social and
environmental injustice associated with illegal mining in forest reserves.

Overall, the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves Regulations, 2022) L.I 2462 seeks to
provide a legal framework for responsible and sustainable mining in forest reserves, which will help
to preserve the unique biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by these critical areas. The
regulation will also help to address the problem of illegal mining by providing a clear set of rules and
guidelines for mining activities in forest reserves.