SHEATHE: Xenobiotic substances and heavy metals in the environment – a threat to health, ecosystems and development in Ghana

The project addresses dispersal and effects of heavy metals and xenobiotic substances in the Ghanaian environment, primarily from rapidly increasing activities in informal economic sectors like artisanal mining (ASM) and management of waste electronic and electric equipment (WEEE). Earlier local-scale investigations and studies at known polluted sites prove the problem is important, but little systematic and dependable data exist on larger scale. Although ASM activities have been sought regulated since 1989, the efforts have in many studies been evaluated as ineffective, and awareness is low on individual and community level.

The project will combine measurement of background concentrations in soil, water and air across the country with measurements of high temporal and spatial resolution in intensive study areas with known pollution sources. Different scales and types of models will be utilized. The project includes high resolution data from UAV (drone) borne sensors and remote sensing. The aim is to describe the dispersal of emissions from different sources, and the relative contribution to concentration levels and trends in background areas at country scale. The output will be used to assess existing and future effects on human health, ecosystems, and food production. Social science research is included to investigate how access to information and knowledge can be used to raise awareness, remove barriers for adaptation of better practices, and develop better risk handling strategies at individual and community level. A participatory approach will be used.