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Sustainable mining development in Ghana: An integrated AHP-TOPSIS-Manhattan distance approach

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  • Tamimu, Mohammed Gadafi
  • Liang, Decui

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive, expert-guided decision-support framework for assessing the sustainability performance of mining operations in Ghana. To tackle the persistent challenges of illegal mining and advocate for improved resource management in the country, the study employs an integrated decision-making model incorporating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), and Manhattan Distance. The framework aims to improve ranking sensitivity, mitigate distortion from extreme scores, and offer a transparent, replicable approach for evaluating lawful mining sites according to many sustainability criteria. Twelve sustainability indicators spanning policy, technical, organizational, and environmental dimensions were evaluated utilizing data gathered from 20 business and academic experts. Five legally recognized and geographically dispersed mining sites were assessed: Newmont Golden Ridge Ltd. (Akyem), AngloGold Ashanti (Obuasi), Gold Fields Ghana Ltd. (Tarkwa), Chirano Gold Mines Ltd.(Bibiani), and Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd. (Bolgatanga). The model demonstrated considerable variations in performance among regions. Newmont Akyem distinguished itself as the highest-performing site because to its strong environmental practices and adherence to regulations, whilst Namdini placed lowest, revealing deficiencies in community integration and environmental management. The sensitivity analysis validated the resilience of the results across several weighting situations. The findings highlight the necessity for tailored policy interventions, strategic investment prioritization, and governance assistance to enhance sustainability outcomes. This research presents methodological enhancements beyond conventional instruments such as the Best–Worst Method (BWM), establishing a scalable framework for sustainable mining evaluation and decision-making in Ghana and analogous environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Tamimu, Mohammed Gadafi & Liang, Decui, 2025. "Sustainable mining development in Ghana: An integrated AHP-TOPSIS-Manhattan distance approach," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 110(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jrpoli:v:110:y:2025:i:c:s0301420725002995
    DOI: 10.1016/j.resourpol.2025.105757
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    References listed on IDEAS

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