Luang Prabang Artisanal Gold Mining and Sociological Survey, Lao PDR
Final Report for UNIDO “Removal of Barriers to the Introduction of Cleaner Artisanal Gold Mining and Extraction Technologies” as prepared by Earth Systems Lao. Earth Systems Lao was engaged by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) to conduct a baseline sociological survey in Chomphet and Pak-Ou districts within Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR where artisanal (or smallscale) gold mining is undertaken. A particular focus of the survey was the collection of information about the use of mercury for artisanal gold mining and the identification of 250 volunteers for participation in a subsequent health survey. This survey is part of a larger UNIDO study funded under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) titled ‘Removal of Barriers to the Introduction of Cleaner Artisanal Gold Mining and Extraction Technologies’. The field survey was conducted in association with the Department of Geology and Mines (DGM), Government of Lao PDR. Data was collected from eight (8) villages on the Mekong River and the Nam Ou River in Luang Prabang Province during August 2003. The study area is situated approximately 300 km north of Vientiane, consisting predominantly of lowland flood plains.
Luang Prabang Artisanal Gold Mining and Sociological Survey, Lao PDR.pdf
