Ghana, a global leader in gold production, is taking bold steps to transition its mining sector towards sustainability. Through the establishment of regulatory frameworks, environmental protection measures, and economic empowerment programmes; the country is laying the groundwork for international certification in the mining sector.
As calls intensify and steps are taken towards sustainability in Ghana’s mining sector, globally leading sustainability firm, World Sustainability Organization has introduced the Sustainable Mining Certification to support efforts towards Ghana’s gold sector aligning with global standards of environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
Sustainable mining is conducted in a manner that minimizes the impact on the surrounding environment and leaves mine sites in an acceptable state for re-use by people or ecosystems.
Consumers and processing companies purchasing products and raw materials from mines certified sustainable according to Friend of the Earth standards, contribute to conservation of natural resources and habitats, while reducing environmental pollution and respecting workers in the mines and all along the processing chain.
Founder and Director of the World Sustainability Organization, Paolo Bray highlights the benefits the Friend of the Earth Sustainable Mining Certification is set to have on mining companies in Ghana, and the potential to support thegovernment’s efforts in sanitizing the mining sector.
“Sustainable mining is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of the industry, protecting the environment, and benefitting local communities. It ensures long-term viability of mining operations, minimizes environmental impact, and promotes the well-being of local communities. By embracing WSO’s Sustainable Mining Certification companies and regulators in Ghana’s mining sector will demonstratecommitment to sustainable practices in mining.”
At the heart of Ghana’s new mining strategy is the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), established in April 2025. This institution is mandated to regulate, purchase, assay, and export all artisanally mined gold, creating a centralized and transparent system. This reform echoes WSO’s emphasis on traceability and integrity within supply chains of the mining sector.
Illegal mining—or galamsey—has caused immense damage to Ghana’s rivers, forests, and farmland. The government’s recent policy changes, including stricter license reviews and enforcement against environmentally destructive practices, reflect a commitment to ecosystem protection. These actions mirror the WSO certification principles which demand conservation of biodiversity, sustainable land use, and responsible resource extraction.
Over one million Ghanaians depend on artisanal and small-scale gold mining; this certification would not only position gold fromGhana more competitively on the international market, but also attract eco-conscious investors and ethical luxury buyers increasingly focused on traceable and responsibly sourced minerals.
The success of the Friend of the Earth Sustainability Mining certification is evidenced by the World Sustainability Organization’s active status in over 70 countries, with more than 1,000 companies and over 3,000 products certified worldwide.
The introduction of the WSO Sustainable Mining certification to Ghana’s mining sector is set to position Ghana as both a global leader in mining and a pioneer of sustainability.
