Impacts Environnementaux Et Socioéconomiques De L’exploitation Artisanale De L’or Dans La Partie Centrale Sud De Madagascar : Cas De La Commune Tsarazaza - District De Fandriana – Région Amoron’Imania

Abstract

This survey assesses the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of the artisanal mining in the commune of Tsarazaza in the view of defining precautionary measures to minimize the environmental risks caused by mining activities and to optimize the positive impacts for local economy.  The methodology is based on fieldwork by adopting descriptive and analytical approach. A close look is taken at gold extraction procedures and any causes of environmental effects and risks. In situ measures of physicochemical parameters of river are chosen to evaluate the threat of pollution. Leopold’s matrix has been used to study the interaction between impacts and various environmental components.  Fecteau’s matrix enables to state its order of importance. This survey reveals that artisanal gold mining causes environmental damages while ensuring local economic growth. The environmental damage affects especially biophysical components such as soil and landscape degradation, erosion, sedimentation and vegetation removal. Concerning water pollution, pH value, Electrical conductivity, Total Dissolved Solid and salinity ensure more or less full compliance with World Health Organization’s regulations regarding drinking water. Socially and economically speaking, in spite of its devastating effects, the gold mining offers substantial income, generating jobs for the local population. To compensate for environmental damages, it is highly recommended to gradually restore the mining sites. Forestry plantations are required to stabilize the soil. To limit water pollution and to stop sand bank, ore washing ponds can help. In order to boost economic growth for the commune, strict enforcement of regulations is needed.