small-scale gold mining

Small-scale gold mining involves individuals or small groups using basic tools and methods to extract gold from local deposits, often in rural areas. It typically requires less capital than large commercial operations and can include techniques like panning, sluicing, or simple excavations. While it provides livelihoods for many, it can also pose environmental and safety challenges, such as habitat disruption, water pollution, and health risks from exposure to toxic substances like mercury. Despite its informal nature, small-scale mining is an important economic activity in many regions and requires responsible practices to minimize negative impacts.