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News
Specific International Programme: Ten projects approved in the Fourth Round
The Governing Board of the Specific International Programme met in Geneva from 22-24 January and approved ten projects for over 2 million dollars: please read the statement by the Co-Chairs, Mr.
News
Libreville commitment on the elimination of mercury-containing skin-lightening cosmetics in Africa
A high-level regional meeting in Libreville, Gabon, brought together African ministers, international experts and civil society leaders to address the public health and environmental risks posed by
Highlights
Geneva Environment Network 25th Anniversary
Minamata Convention Secretariat enjoyed the celebration and presented on how the convention tackles mercury pollution through a life-cycle approach.
Party
Serbia becomes the 152nd Party to the Minamata Convention
On 10 April 2025, Serbia will officially become the 152nd Party to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a key step in joining the global efforts to make mercury history.
Highlights
Third meeting of the Eliminating Mercury Skin Lightening Products project stakeholders group
This meeting, organized by the Global Mercury Partnership, will take place on Thursday 30 January 2025 from 2pm to 4pm (GMT+1) in an online setting.
Publication
Monitoring mercury in and around artisanal and small-scale gold mining sites
This document highlights the importance of developing well designed, scientifically valid and clearly communicated mercury monitoring plans that can generate robust and reliable data.
Highlights
December newsletter and season's greetings
The Secretariat extends its warmest holiday wishes: with 151 Parties now united to #MakeMercuryHistory, we are paving the way towards a healthier planet for millions today and generations to come.
Highlights
GEF Council approves funding boost for pollution and other priorities, kicks off ninth replenishment
The Global Environment Facility (GEF) approved nearly $700 million to improve chemicals and waste management, bolster water and urban resilience, and protect biodiversity in developing countries.
Video
planetGOLD Philippines: Youth for responsible gold
The use of mercury in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has been a tradition passed down through generations in many rural communities in the Philippines, often without awareness of its
About the Minamata Convention
The Minamata Convention on Mercury is the most recent global agreement on environment and health, adopted in 2013. It is named after the bay in Japan where, in the mid-20th century, mercury-tainted industrial wastewater poisoned thousands of people, leading to severe health damage that became known as the "Minamata disease."
Since it entered into force on 16 August 2017, Parties have been working together to control the mercury supply and trade, reduce the use, emission and release of mercury, raise public awareness, and build the necessary institutional capacity to #MakeMercuryHistory