What are the main factors that have contributed to the rapid loss of coastal lands in parts of Ghana? And what measures can be taken to avert this phenomenon?
Answers
Rapid climate changes globally have contributed to significant
degradation of the environment. The current anthropogenic
activities have also transformed the planet which has brought
about uncalculated effects to the natural ecosystem [1].
Issues of coastal erosion are a worldwide problem. [2] claimed
that about 70% of sandy beaches around the globe are recessional. It was also recorded by [3] that almost 85% of US East
Coast barrier beaches have been eroded during the last
100years and also serious erosion has been recorded in other
places ([4]; [5]). This has drawn the attention of various international organizations and governments to deal with this situation by instituting different coastal erosion management
strategies and policies. However, many other places especially
third world countries still experience severe coastal erosion.
According to [6], coastal erosion is probably the most serious
environmental problem facing West African coast. This phenomenon is particularly more pronounced in Ghana especially
on the eastern shores. Specifically, the most severe and internationally known areas are located in the Volta estuary basin,
at Keta and Ada [7]. This poses great challenge to the nation.
In the early years, these cases were seen by most Ghanaians
living along the coast as a natural phenomenon; hence, much
attention was not given to its development.
Answer:
HOPE THIS WILL HELP U
Explanation:
Sand mining is a type of open-cast mining that provides material for the construction sector in Ghana. The construction sector in the coastal areas of Ghana relies heavily on coastal sand and pebbles in the building of houses, bridges and roads. Its contribution to Ghana’s industrial output has increased from 17.4 per cent in 1986 to 20.8 per cent in 1993. However, the process of sand mining has accelerated coastal environmental degradation to an alarming rate in many areas. As a result the government has been compelled to spend millions of dollars to combat sea erosion. This paper examines the causes and effects of coastal sand mining in three communities in the Ahanta West District of Ghana. It argues that coastal sand needs to be exploited to satisfy human demands but this requires efficient and effective resource management to ensure sustainable development. It also calls for a concerted effort by policy makers, sand contractors, engineers, traditional rulers and local residents to find a solution to the coastal environmental crisis.