DAMPAK AKTIVITAS PERTAMBANGAN EMAS TERHADAP KONDISI MASYARAKAT DAN LINGKUNGAN DI DESA KUSUBIBI KECAMATAN BACAN BARAT KABUPATEN HALMAHERA SELATAN

Abstrak

This study aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of the impacts of gold mining activities across social, economic, health, and environmental dimensions. A descriptive qualitative research approach was employed. Data were gathered through observation, interviews, and documentation, with local community members serving as key informants. The research site was selected based on preliminary observations indicating active, significant illegal mining operations. Findings from 20 informants, comprising village officials, community members, and health workers, reveal that gold mining activities have been ongoing since approximately 2020, dominated by small-scale artisanal mining using rudimentary equipment. While these activities have generated positive impacts, such as increased income and job opportunities for the community, these benefits have proven unstable and unevenly distributed. Conversely, negative impacts predominate, particularly regarding the environment; these include water pollution from mercury use, land degradation, and reduced soil fertility. Social impacts include inter-resident conflicts, rising crime rates, and public health issues. The study concludes that gold mining activities in Kusubibi Village have complex consequences, with negative impacts outweighing the positive ones. Therefore, stricter oversight, law enforcement, and the provision of sustainable alternative livelihoods are required to mitigate these impacts.