Environmental Impacts of Gold Processing Methods in Artisanal Mining Cihonje, Banyumas: A Comparison Between Amalgamation and Cyanide Leaching Dwi Fitri Yudiantoro (a), Afrilita (a*), Intan Paramita Haty (a), Dian Rahma Yoni (a), Mutia Risty (a), Melani Putri Pratama (a), Setia Pambudi (a), Suharwanto (b), Noor Cahyo Dwi Aryanto (c), Rizkia Musyarofah (a), Benedikta Regina (a), Bunayya Hisan (a)
(a) Geological Engineering, Faculty of Mineral Technology, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Yogyakarta
*afrilita[at]upnyk.ac.id
(b) Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Mineral Technology, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Yogyakarta
(c) National Research and Innovation Agency, Government Agency
Abstract
Gold mining in Cihonje has seen a rise in artisanal activities, utilizing various methods for ore processing. This study aims to compare the environmental impacts of two prevalent gold processing techniques-amalgamation and cyanide leaching-in the artisanal mining Cihonje areas. Amalgamation, which uses mercury to extract gold, and cyanide leaching, a more modern technique involving cyanide solutions, have differing environmental footprints that significantly affect local ecosystems and communities.
Data were collected through field surveys, water and soil sampling, and interviews with local miners. The study assessed several environmental indicators including soil contamination, water quality, and biodiversity. Results indicate that amalgamation, while historically prevalent and simpler, contributes to high levels of mercury contamination in soil and water, posing serious health risks to local communities and wildlife. Conversely, cyanide leaching, though more efficient in gold recovery, introduces cyanide compounds into the environment, which can be highly toxic if not managed properly. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved environmental management practices in artisanal mining operations. Recommendations include adopting cleaner technologies, implementing stricter environmental regulations, and enhancing community awareness and training. This study highlights the need to balance economic benefits with environmental stewardship in artisanal gold mining for sustainable development in Cihonje.
