Implementation Effectiveness of Mercury Elimination Policies in Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mining

Abstract

This study evaluated the implementation effectiveness of mercury elimination policies in the Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) at Bolaang Mongondow District. A qualitative method used as an explanatory design through interviews and questionnaires. The data collected were analyzed using the Regulatory Gap Analysis method. Based on the data obtained, only 33% of respondents (community representatives) were aware of the mercury elimination policy. 75% of respondents (relevant agencies) have been aware of UU No. 11/2017 about the ratification of the Minamata Convention and the national action plan of the mercury elimination in gold processing in 2014-2018 ESDM (RAN-PPM PE 2014-2018 ESDM). 63% of respondents were aware of PP No. 21/2019 about the national action plan for reduction and elimination of mercury (PP 21/2019 RAN-PPM), and only 50% of respondents who were aware of PMK No. 57/2016 about the national action plan for controlling health impacts due to mercury exposure in 2016-2020 (PMK 57/2016 RAN-PDKAM). The average gap value based on the evaluation result of each policy was:-0.4 in RAN-PPM PE 2014-2018 ESDM,-0.24 in PP 21/2019 RAN-PPM, and-0.21 in PMK 57/2016 RAN-PDKAM. Therefore, the implementation of these policies is unsuccessful in overcoming mercury usage in the ASGM.