The decision was taken at the sixth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-6) in Geneva to reduce mercury pollution.
- It was also agreed to step up global efforts to eliminate mercury-added skin-lightening products.
About Mercury
- Properties:
- Mercury (Hg) is a naturally occurring, heavy, silvery-white transition metal with atomic number 80.
- It is ductile, malleable, and is able to conduct heat and electricity.
- It is the only common metal that is liquid at room temperature.
- Sources:
- Natural: Include volcanic eruptions, emissions from the ocean, etc.
- Anthropogenic: Mining (e.g. during gold mining), fossil fuel combustion, metal and cement production, etc.
- Usage: Historically used in thermometers, barometers, fluorescent lighting, certain batteries, and dental amalgams.
- Toxicity:
- Mercury emitted into the air eventually settles into water or onto land. Once deposited, certain microorganisms can change it into methylmercury.
- Methylmercury is a highly toxic form that builds up in fish, shellfish and animals that eat fish (bioaccumulation).
- Even very small amounts of mercury exposure can be highly toxic, affecting the nervous system, kidneys, skin, eyes, digestive system and immune system.
- Mercury emitted into the air eventually settles into water or onto land. Once deposited, certain microorganisms can change it into methylmercury.
About Minamata Convention on Mercury
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