Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2022 (L.I. 2462).

The Regulation primarily focuses on regulating mining activities within forest reserves in Ghana. Its stated objectives include ensuring effective management of mining operations while protecting the environment and biodiversity. The document operates within the broader legal context of environmental protection and sustainable resource management, emphasizing adherence to approvals from relevant authorities such as the Forestry Commission, Minerals Commission, and Water Resources Commission. Key measures outlined in the document include the requirement for mineral rights holders to operate mines in accordance with approved limits on working areas and road routings. It mandates the maintenance of drainage systems, construction of safety structures, and adherence to environmental standards to minimize adverse impacts on surrounding ecosystems. The regulations also establish a framework for the disbursement of funds related to environmental and ecological services, ensuring that financial commitments from mining companies are directed towards community and environmental needs. Implementation of these regulations involves the establishment of a Steering Committee responsible for supervising the Liaison Group, which manages the operational aspects of mining in forest reserves. The document specifies the composition of the Steering Committee, procedural requirements for meetings, and the necessity for annual reports and audits. It also highlights the role of the Finance Sub-committee in advising on financial management related to environmental commitments. Stakeholder involvement is emphasized through the establishment of local liaison groups, ensuring that community interests are considered in the mining process. The text consists of 54 Articles and has 4 Schedules.