African Civil Engineering Journal | 02 September 2000
Sensors and IoT Systems for Environmental Monitoring in Equatorial Guinea Mining Sites: Policy Recommendations for Enhanced Sustainability Practices
G, a, b, r, i, e, l, N, g, u, e, m, a, ñ, a, ,, A, n, s, e, l, m, o, M, e, f, o, c, h, e, ,, W, i, l, f, r, e, d, o, B, i, a, n, g, o
Abstract
The mining sector in Equatorial Guinea is a critical contributor to the country's economy but poses significant environmental challenges due to its high levels of pollution and resource depletion. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative sensor data collection was used to assess the current state of environmental monitoring at mining sites. A Bayesian hierarchical model was employed to estimate the spatial distribution of pollution hotspots based on sensor readings. Sensor data revealed a significant correlation (\(r = 0\).85, p < 0.01) between temperature and particulate matter levels across different mining areas, indicating that IoT systems can effectively track air quality changes in real-time. The integration of sensors and IoT technologies has the potential to significantly improve environmental monitoring at mining sites, leading to more informed decision-making processes and better protection of local ecosystems. Policy recommendations include mandatory compliance with international environmental standards for mining operations, establishment of a centralized database for sensor data sharing, and implementation of regular audits by independent third-party organizations.