Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) accounts for 20% of global gold production but causes disproportionate environmental and health harm. CNLITE is changing that.
Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) employs an estimated 15 million people across Africa and accounts for roughly 20% of global gold production. It also accounts for a disproportionate share of mercury and cyanide pollution, worker fatalities, and community health impacts.
The Scale of the Problem
In sub-Saharan Africa alone, an estimated 3 million artisanal miners use sodium cyanide or mercury in their gold processing operations. The consequences are severe:
- Worker fatalities: Cyanide poisoning kills hundreds of artisanal miners annually across Africa
- Water contamination: Uncontrolled cyanide discharge contaminates rivers and groundwater used by millions
- Community opposition: Cyanide use is a leading cause of community conflict with mining operations
- Regulatory risk: Many artisanal operations face closure threats due to cyanide-related violations
CNLITE's Role in ASGM
CNLITE Gold Leaching Agent is uniquely suited to artisanal and small-scale operations:
No specialist handling required
Unlike cyanide, CNLITE does not require hazmat-trained personnel, specialised storage, or emergency response equipment. A basic safety briefing is sufficient.
Simple application
CNLITE can be applied using the same equipment as cyanide — no process changes required. Most artisanal operations can transition in a single day.
Affordable at small scale
CNLITE is available in 25 kg bags, making it accessible to operations processing as little as 50 tonnes per month. Volume discounts are available for cooperatives.
Community acceptance
Operations using CNLITE consistently report improved community relations and reduced opposition from local residents and NGOs.
CNLITE Africa's ASGM Programme
We have launched a dedicated ASGM support programme offering:
- Subsidised pricing for operations processing less than 500 t/month
- Free training workshops in partnership with local mining associations
- Technical support via WhatsApp in English, French, and Swahili
- Micro-financing options for reagent purchases in partnership with local banks
Contact us to learn more about our ASGM programme and how we can support your operation's transition to safer, cleaner gold processing.
Interested in switching to CNLITE?
Talk to our technical team about your specific operation — free consultation, no obligation.