Knowledge & Evidence
Research & Publications
Evidence-based advocacy requires rigorous research. Explore GERF’s published findings, reports, and data on Ghana’s environmental crisis.
Research Focus
Our Areas of Research
Water Quality Analysis
Systematic monitoring and testing of river water quality in affected basins — measuring heavy metals, chemical contamination, and biological indicators across the Pra, Ankobra, Offin, and Birim river systems.
Land Use & Deforestation
Satellite-assisted analysis of land cover change in mining-affected zones. Documenting forest loss, topsoil degradation, and conversion of farmland to galamsey sites.
Community Health Studies
Investigating links between environmental degradation and human health outcomes in rural communities, with particular attention to heavy metal exposure and waterborne disease.
Economic Impact Assessment
Quantifying the long-term economic cost of galamsey to rural communities, agricultural productivity, and Ghana’s national development goals.
Research Focus
Our Areas of Research
Water Quality Analysis
Systematic monitoring and testing of river water quality in affected basins — measuring heavy metals, chemical contamination, and biological indicators across the Pra, Ankobra, Offin, and Birim river systems.
Land Use & Deforestation
Satellite-assisted analysis of land cover change in mining-affected zones. Documenting forest loss, topsoil degradation, and conversion of farmland to galamsey sites.
Community Health Studies
Investigating links between environmental degradation and human health outcomes in rural communities, with particular attention to heavy metal exposure and waterborne disease.
Economic Impact Assessment
Quantifying the long-term economic cost of galamsey to rural communities, agricultural productivity, and Ghana’s national development goals.
Findings & Reports
Latest Publications
Annual Report • 2025
State of Ghana’s Mining-Affected Rivers
An overview of water quality conditions across major river systems affected by illegal small-scale mining. Includes field data, community testimonies, and policy recommendations.
Coming Soon
Research Report • 2025
Galamsey and Rural Health: A Community Survey
First-hand survey data on health impacts of contaminated water in communities in Western and Ashanti Regions. Documents heavy metal exposure and waterborne illness.
Coming Soon
Data Analysis • 2025
Forest Cover Loss in Mining Zones: 2000–2025
Satellite-derived analysis of forest and farmland loss in Ghana’s major gold-mining belt over twenty-five years. Quantifies the ecological footprint of galamsey at national scale.
Coming Soon
Policy Brief • 2025
Alternative Livelihoods for Galamsey Communities
Practical policy recommendations for government and NGO partners on creating sustainable livelihood alternatives in communities dependent on illegal mining income.
Coming Soon
