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Working with legal small‐scale miners: Implications for development

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  • Gabriel Botchwey
  • Michael Nest
  • Riccardo D'Emidio

Abstract

Development initiatives focused on illegal artisanal and small‐scale mining (ASM) typically assume that formalisation will address environmental degradation and poverty. But there is little research on legal small‐scale miners' (SSMs) perceptions of their environmental impacts, or on demographic characteristics that should inform development programmes. Based on a survey of 137 legal SSMs, this study analysed the perceptions and practices of legal SSMs within the context of an accountability, rule of law and anti‐corruption programme, with an environmental governance subtheme, in Ghana. Data suggest that formalisation may not be a panacea for improving environmental governance, findings with policy and practical implications for development programmes.

Suggested Citation

  • Gabriel Botchwey & Michael Nest & Riccardo D'Emidio, 2023. "Working with legal small‐scale miners: Implications for development," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 35(6), pages 1239-1253, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:jintdv:v:35:y:2023:i:6:p:1239-1253
    DOI: 10.1002/jid.3726
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    References listed on IDEAS

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