Mineralization And Sustainable Development In The West African Craton

This Special Publication combines results obtained by interdisciplinary groups from numerous academic institutions working on Paleoproterozoic formations to decipher the origins of the main mineralization resources in the West African Craton (WAC) and their impacts on African economic development. Structural, geophysical, sedimentological, stratigraphical, geochemical, petrophysical and mineralogical analyses have been used to highlight the complexities involved in mineralization emplacement and its origin and evolution within the WAC. Fourteen articles contribute to new knowledge in mineral research. They show that the geodynamic evolution of the WAC is complex from one area to another: it involves subduction, collision and obduction during several deformation phases ranging from Birimian (2.3–2.0 Ga) to Pan-African (650–450 Ma) events. Various modelling techniques, when integrated, help in understanding the mechanisms of mineralization emplacement, some of which are still a matter of debate. The challenge for further studies is mitigation for sustainable development that can be appropriately used to minimize such damage.

This volume combines results obtained by interdisciplinary groups from numerous academic institutions working on Paleoproterozoic formations to decipher the origins of the main mineralization resources in the West African Craton (WAC) and their impacts on African economic development. Structural, geophysical, sedimentological, stratigraphical, geochemical, petrophysical and mineralogical analyses have been used to highlight the complexities involved in mineralization emplacement and its origin and evolution within the WAC. 14 articles contribute to new knowledge in mineral research. They show that the geodynamic evolution of the WAC is complex from one area to another: it involves subduction, collision and obduction during several deformation phases ranging from Birimian (2.3-2.0 Ga) to Pan-African (650-450 Ma) events.

Geology and Natural Resources of Nigeria is an up‐to‐date and comprehensive overview of the geological framework of the continental crust of Nigeria, its evolution, and the natural resources it holds. It covers a wide set of topics and provides a detailed description of the rock units of the Nigerian continental crust, their geological settings and structural characteristics, and the potential of their mineral, energy, and water resources. The book discusses the impact of geo‐resources on the Nigerian economy, includes recommendations on how to fully exploit geo‐resources, and explains how to prevent geological processes that could lead to natural hazards. FEATURES Provides different aspects of the Nigerian continental crust from a multidisciplinary approach Draws on the latest findings in geoscience research to present new insights and perspectives into the development and resource potential of the Nigerian continental crust Includes multiple case studies to illustrate the exploration and evaluation of the geological resources of Nigeria Explores the potential of geological resources for economic and industrial development Presents scientific achievements of authors and researchers from various disciplines and provides recommendations for mitigating natural hazards This handbook is intended for industry professionals, academics, researchers, and students studying earth sciences with a special interest in Africa and learning how its geology impacts the natural resources and overall economy of the continent.

For too long Africa's mineral fortune has been lamented as a resource curse that has led to conflict rather than development for much of the continent. Yet times are changing and the opportunities to bring technical expertise on modern mining alongside appropriate governance mechanisms for social development are becoming more accessible in Africa. This book synthesizes perspectives from multiple disciplines to address Africa’s development goals in relation to its mineral resources. The authors cover ways of addressing a range of policy challenges, environmental concerns, and public health impacts and also consider the role of globalization within the extractive industries. Academic research is coupled with key field vignettes from practitioners exemplifying case studies throughout. The book summarizes the challenges of natural resource governance, suggesting ways in which mining can be more effectively managed in Africa. By providing an analytical framework it highlights the essential intersection between natural and social sciences, central to efficient and effective harnessing of the potential for minerals and mining to be a contributor to positive development in Africa. It will be of interest to policy makers, industry professionals, and researchers in the extractive industries, as well as to the broader development community.

This is the first book of peer-reviewed, edited papers that examines the minerals industry in relation to sustainable development. The book takes a proactive, positivist, and solution-oriented approach, while not shying away from the fundamental problems.