Introduction to ASGM - Lecture 1

Estimating Mercury Use and Documenting Practices in Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) - Methods and Tools. This document is an introductory lecture on artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) that outlines its definition, practices, and associated issues. It explains that ASGM is gold extraction conducted by individuals, communities, or small enterprises with limited capital and mostly manual or semi-mechanised methods, and describes basic geology, mineral extraction, ore processing, and gold purity. The document discusses mercury use in ASGM, including amalgamation and environmental loss pathways, and addresses seasonal and spatial variability in mining activities. It also outlines ASGM organization, workforce categories, governance challenges, supply chain structures, and environmental and health impacts.