BACKGROUND:
The Group of Experts on Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining -GEMAPE- was formed in 2019 on the occasion of the ASGMI workshop on The role of Geological Surveys in relation to Artisanal and Informal mining, and Mining Conflicts, held in Quito, Ecuador, in April 2017. However, it did not have activity until 2019 following the agreements of the XXIV ASGMI General Assembly held in Salta, Argentina, in August 2018 where it was proposed to revitalize the group to cover the concern for artisanal and small-scale mining that often generates social, economic and environmental problems. Initially the group was coordinated by the DGM representative from Nicaragua.
MISSION AND VISION OF THE GROUP OF EXPERTS IN ARTISANAL AND SMALL-SCALE MINING:
The primary mission of GEMAPE is to analyze the situation of artisanal and small-scale mining and to develop good practice guidelines for implementation in this sector of economic activity.
The vision, to the extent that it has the necessary organizational and budgetary support, the group would promote professional training for artisanal and small-scale miners and would accompany the corresponding institutions in demanding the implementation of environmentally sustainable mining practices.
WORKSHOPS HELD:
Quito, Ecuador. International Workshop The role of geological services in relation to artisanal and informal mining and mining conflicts, held in Quito, Ecuador, May 25-27, 2017 in collaboration with the Canadian International Resources and Development Institute, CIRDI.
MINUTES OF AGREEMENTS
DECLARATION OF QUITO
RESULTS REPORT OF THE ASGMI – CIRDI WORKSHOP
PUBLICATIONS
“MAPE Manual – Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining”
This document is the result of a collaborative effort among the Geological Services and equivalent institutions of Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico, and Peru, with the support of the ASGMI Secretariat. Its aim is to provide a technical and educational tool that contributes to strengthening the capacities for managing artisanal, family-run, and small-scale mining, promoting a more efficient, safe, and environmentally sustainable use of mineral resources.
The manual covers key topics such as basic geology, types of deposits, mineral extraction and processing techniques, occupational health and safety, waste management, among others. It is intended for both professionals in the sector and stakeholders involved in the technical and regulatory support of this activity.
Download the manual here: “MAPE Manual – Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining”
