Harnessing traditional knowledge and cultural values for environmental protection: a socio-ecological framework for addressing water pollution from illegal mining in Ghana

Illegal artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), popularly known as galamsey, has emerged as one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges, causing widespread water pollution, biodiversity loss, and socio-economic disruption. Despite the proliferation of state-led regulatory and technical interventions, water bodies continue to deteriorate, raising questions about the effectiveness of conventional governance frameworks. This paper argues for the integration of traditional knowledge and cultural values into environmental protection strategies, particularly through a socioecological framework that situates indigenous ecological practices alongside scientific interventions. Drawing on a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles, institutional reports, and leading journals, the study identifies gaps in scholarship on how Ghanaian cultural systems—such as taboos, sacred groves, chieftaincy institutions, and communal stewardship—can be harnessed for sustainable water governance. Findings indicate that while scientific studies document the biophysical impacts of mining, limited attention has been given to indigenous socio-ecological responses and the paradoxes in their contemporary application. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to incorporate cultural custodianship, ecological taboos, and participatory governance into national frameworks for combating mining-induced water pollution.