The goal of this project is to study and record the extent of artisanal, small-scale mining in the Eastern DRC. Miners throughout the region mine for rare earth minerals (such as columbite, tantalite, and tungsten), gold, and tin. These increasingly valuable commodities are fueled by society’s thirst for resources. There is no accurate data documenting the total extent of mining, nor the effects of mining on the environment. Particular focus will be paid to mining occurring in and near national parks of the region, including Kahuzi Biega NP and Itombwe NP.
Using primarily LANDSAT and Digital Globe data, this project proposes to provide resources for conservation organizations throughout the region. These resources would include maps, updated satellite images, and vegetation classifications.