This article explores how AI can help address environmental issues caused by industrial and illegal mining in Ghana. It details the significant environmental and economic costs of mining in Ghana, such as air and water pollution, land degradation, and deforestation. The article recommends that Ghana strengthen regulations on mining, invest in AI and remote sensing technologies to monitor mining activities, promote sustainable mining practices, increase public awareness, and improve institutional capacity to preserve the country's natural resources. It argues that leveraging AI can help investigate mining's impact, detect illegal operations, and aid policymaking to mitigate environmental challenges in a sustainable way.
The concept of green supply chain management (GSCM) is attaining high level
significance given that it can help to minimize negative impact of mining activities on the
environment and to ensure environmental sustainability. This research was carried out
primarily to examine the factors influencing green supply chain management in the mining
industry of Ghana. Data was collected using focus group discussion with the experts from the
mining companies. Analysis of the data showed that the goods purchased by mining companies
have negative effects on the environment. It was also concluded that procurement practices
could be used to reduce the negative impacts of the companies’ operation on the environment
since the procurement departments of the companies have specific policies geared towards
environmentally preferable purchases. The study further established that green procurement
influence supplier selection through environmental regulations by Environmental Protection
Agency of Ghana, suppliers’ environmental emission among others. The study revealed that
the most notable factors influencing green supply chain in the mining companies in Ghana
include lack of knowledge and expertise involving green supply chain, lack of awareness of the
potential economic benefits of green supply chain, lack of political commitment, lack of the
learning capacity to evaluate green supply chain; high cost of environmental programs,
ineffective sanction regime for environmental offenders among others. The study recommends
that mining companies and its allies should organise joint seminars and workshops to sensitize
the staff and suppliers on the benefits of green purchasing and the need to embrace it. The
mining industry and EPA should also link up to train their supply/logistics/procurement
practitioners on the issues of green procurement /supply chain.
A Report of ENR-CSOs Participation in the 1st Water and Environment Week, 17t...Dr. Joshua Zake
This report highlights the key results based on the participation of the ENR-CSOs in the 1st Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK), 2018 organized by the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and Partners. It presents key emerging issues and recommendations (as detailed in Table 1) in this respect for consideration by the duty bearers.
The concept of green supply chain management (GSCM) is attaining high level
significance given that it can help to minimize negative impact of mining activities on the
environment and to ensure environmental sustainability. This research was carried out
primarily to examine the factors influencing green supply chain management in the mining
industry of Ghana. Data was collected using focus group discussion with the experts from the
mining companies. Analysis of the data showed that the goods purchased by mining companies
have negative effects on the environment. It was also concluded that procurement practices
could be used to reduce the negative impacts of the companies’ operation on the environment
since the procurement departments of the companies have specific policies geared towards
environmentally preferable purchases. The study further established that green procurement
influence supplier selection through environmental regulations by Environmental Protection
Agency of Ghana, suppliers’ environmental emission among others. The study revealed that
the most notable factors influencing green supply chain in the mining companies in Ghana
include lack of knowledge and expertise involving green supply chain, lack of awareness of the
potential economic benefits of green supply chain, lack of political commitment, lack of the
learning capacity to evaluate green supply chain; high cost of environmental programs,
ineffective sanction regime for environmental offenders among others. The study recommends
that mining companies and its allies should organise joint seminars and workshops to sensitize
the staff and suppliers on the benefits of green purchasing and the need to embrace it. The
mining industry and EPA should also link up to train their supply/logistics/procurement
practitioners on the issues of green procurement /supply chain.
A Report of ENR-CSOs Participation in the 1st Water and Environment Week, 17t...Dr. Joshua Zake
This report highlights the key results based on the participation of the ENR-CSOs in the 1st Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK), 2018 organized by the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and Partners. It presents key emerging issues and recommendations (as detailed in Table 1) in this respect for consideration by the duty bearers.
We need to establish common interlinked platforms at global, regional and national levels for coherent dialogue and policy action, supported by research, related to climate change, agriculture, forestry, crisis response and food security. This session explores the nexus between climate change, agriculture and new needs in partnership. It draws on two CGIAR programs: “Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security” and “Forests, Trees and Agroforestry”
Visit GCARD2 site web for more information: http://gcardblog.wordpress.com/2012/
Nous avons besoins de mettre en place des plates formes d’interactions communes aux niveaux mondial, régional et national pour un dialogue et politique d’actions cohérents supportés par la recherche sur le changement climatique, l’agriculture, la foresterie, les crises et la sécurité alimentaire. Cette section examine les rapports entre le changement climatique, l’agriculture et les nouveaux besoins en partenariat. Il attire l’attention sur deux programmes du CGIAR : "Changement climatique, Agriculture et Sécurité alimentaire" et "Forêts, Arbres et Agroforesterie"
Visitez le site web du GCARD2 pour plus d'informations: http://gcardblog.wordpress.com/2012/
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT - WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE T...vijay kumar sarabu
There is direct relationship between environment and economic development. Economic development without environmental considerations can cause serious environmental damage in turn impairing the quality of life of present and future generations. In the process of economic development, the environmental problems have been ignored or less concentrated. Any country’s environmental problems are related to the level of its economic development, the availability of natural resources and the lifestyle of its population. In India, rapid growth of population, poverty, urbanization, industrialization and several related factors are responsible for the rapid degradation of the environment. Environmental problems have become serious in many parts of the country, and hence cannot be ignored. The main environmental problems in India relate to air and water pollution particularly in metropolitan cities and industrial zones, degradation of common property resources (Tanks, Ponds Lakes, Rivers, Forests etc.) which affect the poor adversely as they depends on them for their livelihood, threat to biodiversity and inadequate system of solid waste disposal and sanitation with consequent adverse impact on health, infant mortality and birth rate.
Civil Society Organisation’s Contribution in advancing Uganda’s Green Growth ...Dr. Joshua Zake
A presentation made during the 2nd Uganda Water and Environment Week held in Entebbe, Uganda. It highlights the contribution of the Environment and Natural Resources Civil Society Organizations to advance Uganda along the green growth path to development and transformation. Furthermore, the key considerations to address for the civil society in Uganda to effectively deliver on this role at different scales.
A View Of Latin America Through Green PerspectivesaNumak & Company
As the world is turning green, the green future of Latin America seems bright ahead, as many Latin countries are investing in solar, wind, and hydro energy instead of coal. There still exist many problems though, like having a loss of energy sources.
Case study reclaiming-mined-land-in-east-kalimantanAksi SETAPAK
With little or no post-mining land reclamation or rehabilitation activities occurring in East Kalimantan, one of Indonesia’s most heavily mined provinces, SETAPAK partners have been working with a coalition of NGOs to press for improved government regulation.
Two years of NewsLeTERRE. Two years of adding meaning sustainable living. Two years of giving back, satisfaction and rejuvenation. Two years of Emergence of ideas of giving back to our TERRE.
1. Workshop for EIA Consultants - Vicky BowmanEthical Sector
MCRB, together with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Conservation (MONREC) and Vermont Law School, with support from Heinrich Boll Foundation, held a workshop for local Environmental Impact Assessment Consultants with a focus on assessing social impacts – i.e. impacts on people - and the value of public participation and consultation in identifying these.
Read more: http://www.myanmar-responsiblebusiness.org/news/consultants-biggest-challenge.html
GENDER MAINSTREAMING: STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN, 2014-2017, presented to the WOMEN AND ENVIRONMENT FORUM, 4 March 2014, at the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)
Presentation given at Bangkok Sustainable Banking Forum 2019, 13 August 2019. Sarinee Achavanuntakul, Fair Finance Thailand (สฤณี อาชวานันทกุล, แนวร่วมการเงินที่เป็นธรรมประเทศไทย)
This session explores the nexus between climate change and new needs in partnership. Different types of emerging regional partnerships will be discussed, also showing links between local and global levels, and emerging initiatives for cross-region learning.
Visit the conference site for more information: http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
Cette section examine les rapports entre le changement climatique et les nouveaux besoins en partenariats. Différents types de partenariats régionaux en cours seront discutés, en montrant aussi les liens entre les échelles locales et mondiales et les initiatives en cours pour l’apprentissage interrégional
Visitez le site web de la GCARD2 pour plus d'informations: http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
The Art of the Pitch: WordPress Relationships and SalesLaura Byrne
Clients don’t know what they don’t know. What web solutions are right for them? How does WordPress come into the picture? How do you make sure you understand scope and timeline? What do you do if sometime changes?
All these questions and more will be explored as we talk about matching clients’ needs with what your agency offers without pulling teeth or pulling your hair out. Practical tips, and strategies for successful relationship building that leads to closing the deal.
Slack (or Teams) Automation for Bonterra Impact Management (fka Social Soluti...Jeffrey Haguewood
Sidekick Solutions uses Bonterra Impact Management (fka Social Solutions Apricot) and automation solutions to integrate data for business workflows.
We believe integration and automation are essential to user experience and the promise of efficient work through technology. Automation is the critical ingredient to realizing that full vision. We develop integration products and services for Bonterra Case Management software to support the deployment of automations for a variety of use cases.
This video focuses on the notifications, alerts, and approval requests using Slack for Bonterra Impact Management. The solutions covered in this webinar can also be deployed for Microsoft Teams.
Interested in deploying notification automations for Bonterra Impact Management? Contact us at sales@sidekicksolutionsllc.com to discuss next steps.
We need to establish common interlinked platforms at global, regional and national levels for coherent dialogue and policy action, supported by research, related to climate change, agriculture, forestry, crisis response and food security. This session explores the nexus between climate change, agriculture and new needs in partnership. It draws on two CGIAR programs: “Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security” and “Forests, Trees and Agroforestry”
Visit GCARD2 site web for more information: http://gcardblog.wordpress.com/2012/
Nous avons besoins de mettre en place des plates formes d’interactions communes aux niveaux mondial, régional et national pour un dialogue et politique d’actions cohérents supportés par la recherche sur le changement climatique, l’agriculture, la foresterie, les crises et la sécurité alimentaire. Cette section examine les rapports entre le changement climatique, l’agriculture et les nouveaux besoins en partenariat. Il attire l’attention sur deux programmes du CGIAR : "Changement climatique, Agriculture et Sécurité alimentaire" et "Forêts, Arbres et Agroforesterie"
Visitez le site web du GCARD2 pour plus d'informations: http://gcardblog.wordpress.com/2012/
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT - WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE T...vijay kumar sarabu
There is direct relationship between environment and economic development. Economic development without environmental considerations can cause serious environmental damage in turn impairing the quality of life of present and future generations. In the process of economic development, the environmental problems have been ignored or less concentrated. Any country’s environmental problems are related to the level of its economic development, the availability of natural resources and the lifestyle of its population. In India, rapid growth of population, poverty, urbanization, industrialization and several related factors are responsible for the rapid degradation of the environment. Environmental problems have become serious in many parts of the country, and hence cannot be ignored. The main environmental problems in India relate to air and water pollution particularly in metropolitan cities and industrial zones, degradation of common property resources (Tanks, Ponds Lakes, Rivers, Forests etc.) which affect the poor adversely as they depends on them for their livelihood, threat to biodiversity and inadequate system of solid waste disposal and sanitation with consequent adverse impact on health, infant mortality and birth rate.
Civil Society Organisation’s Contribution in advancing Uganda’s Green Growth ...Dr. Joshua Zake
A presentation made during the 2nd Uganda Water and Environment Week held in Entebbe, Uganda. It highlights the contribution of the Environment and Natural Resources Civil Society Organizations to advance Uganda along the green growth path to development and transformation. Furthermore, the key considerations to address for the civil society in Uganda to effectively deliver on this role at different scales.
A View Of Latin America Through Green PerspectivesaNumak & Company
As the world is turning green, the green future of Latin America seems bright ahead, as many Latin countries are investing in solar, wind, and hydro energy instead of coal. There still exist many problems though, like having a loss of energy sources.
Case study reclaiming-mined-land-in-east-kalimantanAksi SETAPAK
With little or no post-mining land reclamation or rehabilitation activities occurring in East Kalimantan, one of Indonesia’s most heavily mined provinces, SETAPAK partners have been working with a coalition of NGOs to press for improved government regulation.
Two years of NewsLeTERRE. Two years of adding meaning sustainable living. Two years of giving back, satisfaction and rejuvenation. Two years of Emergence of ideas of giving back to our TERRE.
1. Workshop for EIA Consultants - Vicky BowmanEthical Sector
MCRB, together with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Conservation (MONREC) and Vermont Law School, with support from Heinrich Boll Foundation, held a workshop for local Environmental Impact Assessment Consultants with a focus on assessing social impacts – i.e. impacts on people - and the value of public participation and consultation in identifying these.
Read more: http://www.myanmar-responsiblebusiness.org/news/consultants-biggest-challenge.html
GENDER MAINSTREAMING: STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN, 2014-2017, presented to the WOMEN AND ENVIRONMENT FORUM, 4 March 2014, at the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)
Presentation given at Bangkok Sustainable Banking Forum 2019, 13 August 2019. Sarinee Achavanuntakul, Fair Finance Thailand (สฤณี อาชวานันทกุล, แนวร่วมการเงินที่เป็นธรรมประเทศไทย)
This session explores the nexus between climate change and new needs in partnership. Different types of emerging regional partnerships will be discussed, also showing links between local and global levels, and emerging initiatives for cross-region learning.
Visit the conference site for more information: http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
Cette section examine les rapports entre le changement climatique et les nouveaux besoins en partenariats. Différents types de partenariats régionaux en cours seront discutés, en montrant aussi les liens entre les échelles locales et mondiales et les initiatives en cours pour l’apprentissage interrégional
Visitez le site web de la GCARD2 pour plus d'informations: http://www.egfar.org/gcard-2012
The Art of the Pitch: WordPress Relationships and SalesLaura Byrne
Clients don’t know what they don’t know. What web solutions are right for them? How does WordPress come into the picture? How do you make sure you understand scope and timeline? What do you do if sometime changes?
All these questions and more will be explored as we talk about matching clients’ needs with what your agency offers without pulling teeth or pulling your hair out. Practical tips, and strategies for successful relationship building that leads to closing the deal.
Slack (or Teams) Automation for Bonterra Impact Management (fka Social Soluti...Jeffrey Haguewood
Sidekick Solutions uses Bonterra Impact Management (fka Social Solutions Apricot) and automation solutions to integrate data for business workflows.
We believe integration and automation are essential to user experience and the promise of efficient work through technology. Automation is the critical ingredient to realizing that full vision. We develop integration products and services for Bonterra Case Management software to support the deployment of automations for a variety of use cases.
This video focuses on the notifications, alerts, and approval requests using Slack for Bonterra Impact Management. The solutions covered in this webinar can also be deployed for Microsoft Teams.
Interested in deploying notification automations for Bonterra Impact Management? Contact us at sales@sidekicksolutionsllc.com to discuss next steps.
Transcript: Selling digital books in 2024: Insights from industry leaders - T...BookNet Canada
The publishing industry has been selling digital audiobooks and ebooks for over a decade and has found its groove. What’s changed? What has stayed the same? Where do we go from here? Join a group of leading sales peers from across the industry for a conversation about the lessons learned since the popularization of digital books, best practices, digital book supply chain management, and more.
Link to video recording: https://bnctechforum.ca/sessions/selling-digital-books-in-2024-insights-from-industry-leaders/
Presented by BookNet Canada on May 28, 2024, with support from the Department of Canadian Heritage.
Generating a custom Ruby SDK for your web service or Rails API using Smithyg2nightmarescribd
Have you ever wanted a Ruby client API to communicate with your web service? Smithy is a protocol-agnostic language for defining services and SDKs. Smithy Ruby is an implementation of Smithy that generates a Ruby SDK using a Smithy model. In this talk, we will explore Smithy and Smithy Ruby to learn how to generate custom feature-rich SDKs that can communicate with any web service, such as a Rails JSON API.
Essentials of Automations: Optimizing FME Workflows with ParametersSafe Software
Are you looking to streamline your workflows and boost your projects’ efficiency? Do you find yourself searching for ways to add flexibility and control over your FME workflows? If so, you’re in the right place.
Join us for an insightful dive into the world of FME parameters, a critical element in optimizing workflow efficiency. This webinar marks the beginning of our three-part “Essentials of Automation” series. This first webinar is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to utilize parameters effectively: enhancing the flexibility, maintainability, and user control of your FME projects.
Here’s what you’ll gain:
- Essentials of FME Parameters: Understand the pivotal role of parameters, including Reader/Writer, Transformer, User, and FME Flow categories. Discover how they are the key to unlocking automation and optimization within your workflows.
- Practical Applications in FME Form: Delve into key user parameter types including choice, connections, and file URLs. Allow users to control how a workflow runs, making your workflows more reusable. Learn to import values and deliver the best user experience for your workflows while enhancing accuracy.
- Optimization Strategies in FME Flow: Explore the creation and strategic deployment of parameters in FME Flow, including the use of deployment and geometry parameters, to maximize workflow efficiency.
- Pro Tips for Success: Gain insights on parameterizing connections and leveraging new features like Conditional Visibility for clarity and simplicity.
We’ll wrap up with a glimpse into future webinars, followed by a Q&A session to address your specific questions surrounding this topic.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your FME expertise and drive your projects to new heights of efficiency.
GDG Cloud Southlake #33: Boule & Rebala: Effective AppSec in SDLC using Deplo...James Anderson
Effective Application Security in Software Delivery lifecycle using Deployment Firewall and DBOM
The modern software delivery process (or the CI/CD process) includes many tools, distributed teams, open-source code, and cloud platforms. Constant focus on speed to release software to market, along with the traditional slow and manual security checks has caused gaps in continuous security as an important piece in the software supply chain. Today organizations feel more susceptible to external and internal cyber threats due to the vast attack surface in their applications supply chain and the lack of end-to-end governance and risk management.
The software team must secure its software delivery process to avoid vulnerability and security breaches. This needs to be achieved with existing tool chains and without extensive rework of the delivery processes. This talk will present strategies and techniques for providing visibility into the true risk of the existing vulnerabilities, preventing the introduction of security issues in the software, resolving vulnerabilities in production environments quickly, and capturing the deployment bill of materials (DBOM).
Speakers:
Bob Boule
Robert Boule is a technology enthusiast with PASSION for technology and making things work along with a knack for helping others understand how things work. He comes with around 20 years of solution engineering experience in application security, software continuous delivery, and SaaS platforms. He is known for his dynamic presentations in CI/CD and application security integrated in software delivery lifecycle.
Gopinath Rebala
Gopinath Rebala is the CTO of OpsMx, where he has overall responsibility for the machine learning and data processing architectures for Secure Software Delivery. Gopi also has a strong connection with our customers, leading design and architecture for strategic implementations. Gopi is a frequent speaker and well-known leader in continuous delivery and integrating security into software delivery.
Securing your Kubernetes cluster_ a step-by-step guide to success !KatiaHIMEUR1
Today, after several years of existence, an extremely active community and an ultra-dynamic ecosystem, Kubernetes has established itself as the de facto standard in container orchestration. Thanks to a wide range of managed services, it has never been so easy to set up a ready-to-use Kubernetes cluster.
However, this ease of use means that the subject of security in Kubernetes is often left for later, or even neglected. This exposes companies to significant risks.
In this talk, I'll show you step-by-step how to secure your Kubernetes cluster for greater peace of mind and reliability.
Kubernetes & AI - Beauty and the Beast !?! @KCD Istanbul 2024Tobias Schneck
As AI technology is pushing into IT I was wondering myself, as an “infrastructure container kubernetes guy”, how get this fancy AI technology get managed from an infrastructure operational view? Is it possible to apply our lovely cloud native principals as well? What benefit’s both technologies could bring to each other?
Let me take this questions and provide you a short journey through existing deployment models and use cases for AI software. On practical examples, we discuss what cloud/on-premise strategy we may need for applying it to our own infrastructure to get it to work from an enterprise perspective. I want to give an overview about infrastructure requirements and technologies, what could be beneficial or limiting your AI use cases in an enterprise environment. An interactive Demo will give you some insides, what approaches I got already working for real.
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💥 Speed, accuracy, and scaling – discover the superpowers of GenAI in action with UiPath Document Understanding and Communications Mining™:
See how to accelerate model training and optimize model performance with active learning
Learn about the latest enhancements to out-of-the-box document processing – with little to no training required
Get an exclusive demo of the new family of UiPath LLMs – GenAI models specialized for processing different types of documents and messages
This is a hands-on session specifically designed for automation developers and AI enthusiasts seeking to enhance their knowledge in leveraging the latest intelligent document processing capabilities offered by UiPath.
Speakers:
👨🏫 Andras Palfi, Senior Product Manager, UiPath
👩🏫 Lenka Dulovicova, Product Program Manager, UiPath
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Welcome to UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series part 3. In this session, we will cover desktop automation along with UI automation.
Topics covered:
UI automation Introduction,
UI automation Sample
Desktop automation flow
Pradeep Chinnala, Senior Consultant Automation Developer @WonderBotz and UiPath MVP
Deepak Rai, Automation Practice Lead, Boundaryless Group and UiPath MVP
Builder.ai Founder Sachin Dev Duggal's Strategic Approach to Create an Innova...Ramesh Iyer
In today's fast-changing business world, Companies that adapt and embrace new ideas often need help to keep up with the competition. However, fostering a culture of innovation takes much work. It takes vision, leadership and willingness to take risks in the right proportion. Sachin Dev Duggal, co-founder of Builder.ai, has perfected the art of this balance, creating a company culture where creativity and growth are nurtured at each stage.
Key Trends Shaping the Future of Infrastructure.pdfCheryl Hung
Keynote at DIGIT West Expo, Glasgow on 29 May 2024.
Cheryl Hung, ochery.com
Sr Director, Infrastructure Ecosystem, Arm.
The key trends across hardware, cloud and open-source; exploring how these areas are likely to mature and develop over the short and long-term, and then considering how organisations can position themselves to adapt and thrive.
Key Trends Shaping the Future of Infrastructure.pdf
My Tarbell Stories.
1. Story :1
The title of the piece:
Environmental Impact Exposed: How AI Can Help Investigate the Consequences of Industrial and Illegal
Mining Projects in Ghana
Sentence description of the piece:
In the investigative report "Environmental Impact Exposed: How AI Can Help Investigate the
Consequences of Industrial and Illegal Mining Projects in Ghana" by Alex Ababio, AI's potential to
address environmental issues caused by mining is emphasized, with recommendations for enforcement,
technology investment, sustainable practices, public awareness, and collaboration among stakeholders
for Ghana's resource preservation.
1. A 1-3 sentence explanation of what this piece demonstrates in the context of your application.
2. (If relevant) Details of when and where this piece was published, with external links. :
This piece, titled "Environmental Impact Exposed: How AI Can Help Investigate the Consequences of
Industrial and Illegal Mining Projects in Ghana," showcases my dedication to exploring the intersection of
AI and critical issues, aligning with the Tarbell Fellowship's focus on AI journalism. It underscores my
commitment to investigating how AI can address environmental challenges, a testament to my passion for
in-depth reporting in this emerging field.It was published on Ghanaianwatch.com on the May 16, 2023
https://www.ghanaianwatch.com/2023/05/16/environmental-impact-exposed-how-ai-can-help-
investigate-the-consequences-of-industrial-and-illegal-mining-projects-in-ghana/
Environmental Impact Exposed: How AI Can Help Investigate the Consequences of Industrial and
Illegal Mining Projects in Ghana
Investigative Report by Alex Ababio
Introduction:
Ghana’s impressive economic growth over the past decades has been fueled by the exploitation of its
abundant natural resources. However, the environmental consequences of this growth cannot be
overlooked. The destruction caused by industrial activities and illegal mining, commonly known as
Galamsey, is posing a severe threat to Ghana’s ecosystems, water bodies, and forests. In this
investigative report, we will delve into the practical examples, facts, and statistics surrounding the
environmental and socio-economic problems arising from these projects. Furthermore, we will explore
the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in addressing and mitigating these pressing issues.
The Cost of Environmental Degradation:
According to the World Bank’s Ghana Country Environmental Analysis (CEA), environmental degradation
in Ghana costs a staggering $6.3 billion annually, equivalent to nearly 11% of the country’s 2017 GDP.
2. These costs arise from various factors, such as air pollution, water pollution, plastics pollution, e-waste,
poor land management, coastal erosion, overfishing, and the impacts of climate change.
Air pollution, the leading environmental risk to public health, imposes a hefty economic burden of
approximately $2 billion per year. It is responsible for nearly 16,000 premature deaths annually, with the
elderly being the most vulnerable. Moreover, more than half of the deaths caused by pneumonia in
children under five are associated with air pollution.
Water pollution, another significant consequence of industrial and illegal mining activities, inflicts
damage equivalent to 3% of Ghana’s GDP. Inadequate water supply, poor sanitation, and the discharge
of toxic industrial waste into water systems have severe health implications for the population.
Plastics pollution has reached crisis proportions, with over 3,000 metric tons of plastic waste produced
daily. Improper disposal of plastic waste clogs drainage systems and pollutes the oceans, exacerbating
environmental degradation.
The Agbogbloshie dumpsite, a major e-waste processing site, contributes to air pollution in Accra.
Burning electronic parts release carcinogenic compounds into the air, while toxic metals contaminate
waterways and oceans. The health costs associated with lead and mercury exposure amount to $440
million annually, leading to diseases and cognitive impairments in children.
Illegal mining activities, especially artisanal gold mining, exacerbate land degradation, costing Ghana
over US$500 million per year. Additionally, deforestation amounts to $400 million annually, with five
million hectares of forest lost between 2001 and 2015. Miners’ exposure to toxic mercury results in
$240 million in health costs.
Coastal erosion is a pressing issue, with Ghana losing approximately 2.7 million square meters of
shoreline each year. Eighty percent of the shoreline is actively eroding, posing a significant risk to coastal
communities and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Overfishing, costing $233 million, threatens small
pelagic fisheries and could lead to the loss of half a million jobs.
The Way Forward: AI as a Tool for Investigation and Mitigation:
Expert Perspectives:
According to Dr. Ama Kudom-Agyemang, an environmental scientist at the University of Ghana, “AI has
the potential to revolutionize the way we tackle environmental challenges in Ghana. By harnessing the
power of advanced technologies, we can improve our understanding of the environmental impact of
mining activities and develop targeted interventions for sustainable resource management.
Artificial intelligence presents a unique opportunity to investigate and mitigate the consequences of
industrial and illegal mining projects in Ghana. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data, including
satellite imagery, to identify and monitor areas affected by mining activities. This technology can help
detect illegal mining operations and provide early warnings of environmental degradation.
Furthermore, AI can aid in the development of predictive models to assess the potential impact of
mining projects on ecosystems, water bodies, and forests. By simulating various scenarios, policymakers
can make informed decisions and implement preventive measures to protect
Ghana’s natural resources.
3. Recommendations:
To address the environmental challenges posed by industrial and illegal mining projects in Ghana,
several recommendations are necessary:
Strengthen Enforcement and Regulation: The Ghanaian government should enhance enforcement
mechanisms to curb illegal mining activities. This includes increasing penalties for offenders and
ensuring strict adherence to existing environmental regulations. Additionally, authorities should
strengthen collaboration with local communities and law enforcement agencies to combat illegal mining
effectively.
Invest in AI and Remote Sensing Technologies: Ghana should prioritize the adoption and
implementation of AI and remote sensing technologies to monitor mining activities and identify
potential areas of environmental degradation. This would enable timely interventions and improve the
efficiency of resource allocation for monitoring and enforcement purposes.
Promote Sustainable Mining Practices: Encouraging responsible mining practices is crucial for
minimizing the environmental impact of mining projects. The government should work closely with
mining companies to ensure the adoption of sustainable practices, including proper waste management,
reforestation, and rehabilitation of mined areas. Implementing certification programs and providing
incentives for environmentally friendly mining practices can further promote sustainability.
Increase Public Awareness and Participation: Educating the public about the environmental
consequences of mining activities is essential. Awareness campaigns should highlight the importance of
protecting natural resources and involve local communities in decision-making processes. Public
participation can lead to better-informed policies and ensure the inclusion of community perspectives in
environmental management.
Strengthen Institutional Capacity:
Ghana needs to enhance the capacity of institutions responsible for monitoring and regulating mining
activities. This includes providing adequate training and resources to environmental agencies, improving
data collection and analysis capabilities, and establishing robust monitoring and evaluation systems.
Strengthening institutional capacity will enable effective oversight and enforcement of environmental
regulations.
Expert Perspectives:
According Dr. Kwame Boateng, an expert in natural resource governance, emphasizes the need for
multi-stakeholder collaboration: “Addressing the environmental consequences of mining requires a
collective effort involving government, mining companies, local communities, and civil society
organizations. By working together, we can ensure the responsible and sustainable use of Ghana’s
natural resources.”
Conclusion:
The environmental impact of industrial and illegal mining projects in Ghana poses significant economic,
social, and health challenges. To protect Ghana’s natural capital and promote sustainable growth
4. immediate action is needed. Leveraging AI and other technological advancements can play a vital role in
investigating and mitigating the consequences of mining activities. However, it is crucial to implement
stringent regulations, promote sustainable mining practices, and enhance public awareness and
participation. By adopting a holistic approach and strengthening institutional capacity, Ghana can pave
the way for sustainable development while preserving its invaluable natural resources for future
generations.
Links:
https://www.ghanaianwatch.com/2023/05/16/environmental-impact-exposed-how-ai-can-help-
investigate-the-consequences-of-industrial-and-illegal-mining-projects-in-ghana/
Story : 2
Title : Unmasking Corruption with AI: A Closer Look at Systemic Irregularities in Ghana’s Healthcare
Sector
Sentence description of the piece. :
This article, titled "Unmasking Corruption with AI: A Closer Look at Systemic Irregularities in Ghana’s
Healthcare Sector" by Alex Ababio, sheds light on the pervasive issue of corruption in Ghana's
healthcare sector and explores how AI can be harnessed to combat this systemic problem, emphasizing
the urgent need for comprehensive action to ensure transparency, accountability, and equitable access
to healthcare.
3. A 1-3 sentence explanation of what this piece demonstrates in the context of your application.
4. (If relevant) Details of when and where this piece was published, with external links:
This piece, "Unmasking Corruption with AI: A Closer Look at Systemic Irregularities in Ghana’s
Healthcare Sector," exemplifies my dedication to investigative journalism by delving into critical issues,
aligning with the Tarbell Fellowship's focus on in-depth reporting. It also showcases my commitment to
exploring how AI can be a transformative tool in addressing real-world challenges, a crucial aspect of the
fellowship's objectives. Additionally, this piece which was published on Ghanaianwatch.com on the June
12, 2022 highlights my passion for using journalism as a means to drive transparency, accountability, and
positive change, which resonates with the fellowship's mission to foster informed AI-related journalism.
Link :
https://www.ghanaianwatch.com/2022/06/12/unmasking-corruption-with-ai-a-closer-look-at-systemic-
irregularities-in-ghanas-healthcare-sector/
5. Unmasking Corruption with AI: A Closer Look at Systemic Irregularities in Ghana’s Healthcare Sector
By Alex Ababio
Introduction:
Corruption within the healthcare sector is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. In Ghana,
the prevalence of corruption poses a significant threat to the country’s healthcare system, affecting the
lives of the most vulnerable citizens. This article delves into the depths of corruption in Ghana’s
healthcare sector, highlighting its detrimental impact and exploring the potential of artificial intelligence
(AI) in addressing these systemic irregularities.
Understanding Corruption in Ghana’s Healthcare Sector:
A study on corruption in the health sector revealed alarming statistics, with doctors recording the
highest percentage (54.3%) of corrupt practices, followed by pharmacists (23.5%). Nurses accounted for
9.9%, while paramedics and laboratory staff recorded 7.4% and 4.9%, respectively. These figures shed
light on the widespread nature of corruption within the sector, undermining the integrity of healthcare
delivery.
The healthcare sector is particularly susceptible to corruption due to the uncertainties surrounding the
demand for services, especially in developing countries. Informal payments and bribery from patients to
healthcare providers are common occurrences, perpetuating corruption. Transparency International has
identified Ghana’s health sector as a corruption-prone area, with evidence of bribery and fraud
throughout medical services.
Implications of Corruption in Healthcare:
Corruption within the healthcare sector can have severe consequences, including the difference
between life and death. The most vulnerable populations, such as the poor, bear the brunt of this
corruption. Medical staff may charge unofficial fees, demand bribes for medication that should be
provided free of charge, or prioritize patients who offer bribes. Furthermore, the sale of fake or
adulterated medications puts lives at risk. Corruption erodes trust in the healthcare system and hinders
progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on ensuring good health
and well-being for all.
Harnessing AI to Tackle Corruption:
Artificial intelligence presents a promising solution to combat corruption in Ghana’s healthcare sector.
By leveraging AI technologies, it is possible to detect and prevent corrupt practices more effectively. AI
algorithms can analyze large datasets to identify patterns of corruption, flag suspicious activities, and
facilitate early intervention. Additionally, AI-powered systems can streamline processes, improve
transparency, and enhance accountability, reducing opportunities for corruption to thrive.
Recommendations for Combating Corruption:
To address corruption in Ghana’s healthcare sector, a comprehensive approach is required. Firstly,
strengthening legal frameworks and enforcing existing laws and acts against corruption is essential. The
Public Financial Management Act, the Criminal Offences Act, and the Whistleblower Act provide a
foundation for combating corruption and should be strictly enforced.
6. Secondly, investing in training programs for healthcare professionals on ethics, integrity, and anti-
corruption measures is crucial. Building a culture of transparency and accountability within healthcare
institutions is vital to promote ethical practices and deter corruption.
Furthermore, leveraging AI technology should be a priority. The Ghanaian government and healthcare
authorities should collaborate with technology experts to develop AI-based systems that can identify
and prevent corrupt practices. These systems should be integrated into existing healthcare processes to
ensure seamless implementation.
Conclusion:
The unmasking of corruption within Ghana’s healthcare sector highlights the urgent need for action. It is
imperative that all stakeholders, including the government, healthcare providers, and civil society, come
together to address this systemic issue. By combining legal frameworks, training programs, and AI-
powered solutions, Ghana can build a healthcare system characterized by transparency, accountability,
and integrity. Only through these collective efforts can corruption be eradicated, ensuring equitable
access to healthcare for all Ghanaian citizens.
Links :
https://www.ghanaianwatch.com/2022/06/12/unmasking-corruption-with-ai-a-closer-look-at-systemic-
irregularities-in-ghanas-healthcare-sector/
Story : 3
Title : How We Can Live to 100 Years Old – The Scientific Proof
Sentence description of the piece :
This article, "How We Can Live to 100 Years Old – The Scientific Proof" by Alex Ababio, explores the
possibilities of extending human life to 100 years and beyond by delving into scientific advancements,
including the potential of gene therapy, caloric restriction, and bionic organs, aligning with the Tarbell
Fellowship's focus on covering emerging technologies and their impact on society.
5. 1-3 sentence explanation of what this piece demonstrates in the context of your application.
6. (If relevant) Details of when and where this piece was published, with external links:
This article, "How We Can Live to 100 Years Old – The Scientific Proof," illustrates my commitment to
exploring cutting-edge scientific advancements, aligning with the Tarbell Fellowship's emphasis on
emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and their societal implications. It showcases my ability
to communicate complex scientific concepts in a way that's accessible to a broader audience, a skill vital
7. for AI journalism. Additionally, this piece which was published on Ghanaianwatch.com on June 23, 2023
demonstrates my enthusiasm for investigating the intersection of technology, health, and longevity, which
resonates with the fellowship's focus on innovative AI applications in various fields.
Links :
https://www.ghanaianwatch.com/2022/06/23/how-we-can-live-to-100-years-old-the-scientific-proof/
How We Can Live to 100 Years Old – The Scientific Proof
By Alex Ababio
Did you know that until the early 1800s, most people only lived to be about 25 years old? It’s true. But
thanks to scientific discoveries and innovations in medicine, nutrition, and other fields of human study,
today we can live to be almost double that age. That’s right – today the average life expectancy is
around 70-80 years old. But what if we could go even further? What if humans could one day live to be
100 years old? And maybe even beyond that? Well, according to some very recent studies and
discoveries, it might just be possible.
Let’s take a look at how we could perhaps one day achieve this milestone with these nine scientific
proofs about living longer as a result of new technologies and breakthroughs in medical research.
Our bodies are actually programmed to live longer
Most people believe that the only way to live longer is by finding cures for diseases and infections that
cause us to die young. But in reality, our bodies are actually programmed to live much longer than they
currently do. The aging process is actually something that we’re biologically programmed to do. So, why
does our body want to make us age so quickly? Well, it’s actually because aging is what’s responsible for
getting rid of harmful cells that can cause us to become sick and die. But because we have such
advanced medical technology today, we can do things that can help us better protect ourselves against
diseases and infections. We can also do things that will put off the aging process and make our bodies
last longer.
Medical science will find ways to stop aging
Some scientists even believe that aging can be stopped with the right medical breakthroughs. And
they’re already making headway to make this a reality. They’ve already started to treat aging as if it
were a disease. And by treating it like a disease, scientists are looking for ways to cure aging just like
they do with other diseases like cancer, diabetes, etc. This is being called the “anti-aging” or “longevity”
research industry. And it’s expected to grow to be a $6 billion industry by 2020. Some of the treatments
that scientists think will help slow down aging and make people live longer include gene therapy, caloric
restriction, and even “good bacteria” treatments.
Caloric restriction will be proven to lengthen our lives
Caloric restriction is a form of dieting that’s been shown to help people live longer. And it also appears
to put off the aging process. But it’s a bit different than just eating less. With caloric restriction dieting,
you’re actually supposed to eat less of all types of food, but particularly protein and carbohydrates. The
8. reason this works is because your body survives by burning energy. And when you have less energy,
your body actually uses up less of its own energy. So, when you have less energy, your body slows down
in terms of the aging process. And it also makes your body last longer.
Genetics and gene therapy will help us live longer
We’ve all seen plenty of sci-fi movies where scientists are able to change people’s genes and make them
stronger, faster, or able to do things that they never could before. But what if doctors could actually do
this to people in real-life? Well, some scientists believe that they can. They believe that, in the future,
doctors could be able to use gene therapy to change people’s genes to make them live longer. Gene
therapy is a medical practice that has been around for a while. But it’s still being researched to be used
to its full potential. Most gene therapy research today is being used to help people with diseases and
diseases like cancer. But although scientists are still researching how gene therapy can be used to help
cure diseases, they’re also looking into how it can be used to help people live longer.
Bionic organs will be able to sustain our bodies for longer
Another way in which scientists are trying to make humans live longer is by creating bionic organs that
can sustain our bodies for longer. Scientists have already made huge advancements in creating bionic
organs. And they also believe that they can go even further in their research. They believe that in the
future, we will be able to create fully artificial organs that are better than the ones that are inside our
bodies right now. They say that these artificial organs will be able to perform at levels that are even
better than the organs that are inside our bodies now. They also say that these bionic organs will be able
to function for longer.
Conclusion
There’s no question that we’ve made a lot of progress when it comes to living longer. And there are
plenty of new technologies that are going to help us live even longer in the future. Scientists are now
looking into ways that they can make people live longer by making changes to their genes, creating
better bionic organs, eating less and eating healthier, and much more. All of these scientific discoveries
are going to help us live longer. And it will be interesting to see just how long we can maintain this trend
for.
Link :
https://www.ghanaianwatch.com/2022/06/23/how-we-can-live-to-100-years-old-the-scientific-proof/