In Ghana’s Shama District, the Whin Valley rice fields hold immense agricultural significance, sustaining livelihoods and providing food for the local community and beyond. But beneath this fertile land, a hidden story unfolds.
Three Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health—Martin Bartels, Emmanuella Avornyoh, and Emmanuel Opoku-Mensah, all pursuing their master’s degrees in environmental and occupational health—embark on a transformative mission to uncover the potential impacts of local farming practices and nearby illegal mining activities on soil and community health.
Heavy Risks documentary follows these U of T researchers as they undertake a preliminary quantitative risk assessment (PQRA), analyzing heavy metal contamination in the soil. Their findings lay the foundation for understanding the potential health risks faced by farmers and residents, while opening doors to deeper research and solutions.
Set against the stunning landscapes of Whin Valley, the documentary captures intimate conversations with local farmers and highlights the urgent intersection of soil health, sustainability, and community well-being.