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EPA Tightens Controls on Gold Leaching Chemicals Across Ghana
January 29,2026
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has introduced nationwide measures aimed at addressing chemical pollution associated with unregulated gold leaching activities in mining districts across Ghana.
The EPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, disclosed that the new regulatory framework is intended to tighten control over the use of hazardous chemicals, trace their sources, and ensure that gold processing operations comply with environmental safety standards.
“We are committed to protecting our environment and communities from the harmful effects of unregulated chemical use in mining,” she stated.
Prof. Klutse made the announcement while addressing mining operators in Tarkwa, where she expressed concern over the increasing environmental threat posed by illegal gold leaching practices.
Gold leaching, a process that involves dissolving gold from ore using chemicals such as cyanide and strong acids, has become a major hazard when carried out without proper permits, containment systems, and safety oversight.
She explained that under the new measures, all operators involved in leaching activities will be required to register with the EPA, undergo mandatory environmental safety training, and obtain certification before continuing operations.
“Operators must register, undergo mandatory environmental safety training, and obtain certification to ensure full compliance with EPA regulations,” Prof. Klutse added.
The EPA CEO further emphasised that the authority will also implement stricter monitoring of the chemical supply chain to prevent indiscriminate access to dangerous substances.
According to her, leaching associations will be expected to play a key role in monitoring the procurement and distribution of chemicals used in gold processing.
Prof. Klutse warned that failure to comply with the new regulations by the end of February 2026 will result in legal consequences, including fines and possible prosecution.
“Failure to comply by the end of February 2026 will attract legal sanctions, including fines and prosecution,” she cautioned.
The EPA says the nationwide crackdown forms part of a broader strategy to safeguard ecosystems, protect communities located downstream from mining zones, and prevent irreversible damage to land and water bodies caused by toxic mining chemicals.
