Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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November 3, 2025 Healthcare
Mercury has been used for centuries in industry and medicine, and even in mirror manufacturing, but it has also caused enormous damage to the environment and human health. This was stated by Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), at a meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury in Geneva.
She stressed that the international community is obliged to take measures to protect the environment and the planet's population from the toxic effects of this substance.
Mrema recalled the tragedy in the Japanese city of Minamata in 1956, where mass mercury poisoning led to paralysis, coma, and death among people and animals. This event became a catalyst for international action.
Minamata Convention on Mercury, adopted in 2013 and entered into force in 2017, today unites 153 states.
The UNEP Deputy Director-General emphasized that tangible results have already been achieved:
Many countries have reduced or eliminated the use of mercury in dentistry; several initiatives in Africa are promoting the elimination of mercury-containing cosmetics; and chemical companies are switching to cleaner technologies.
"The Convention also addresses the complex issue of artisanal and small-scale gold mining, where the pursuit of profit stands in the way of change. In this context, the participation of indigenous peoples and local communities reminds us that environmental progress and justice are always intertwined," Mrema said.
She reiterated UNEP's role in combating mercury use. "We are using our scientific expertise, our convening power, and global partnerships not only to support the implementation of the Minamata Convention but also to reimagine what sustainable production can be," Mrema emphasized.
She also noted that science remains UNEP's "compass." Collecting global data and creating information platforms allows countries to see the full picture of mercury use and emissions and make effective decisions. This work is directly linked to the work of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution, helping to keep mercury on the agenda of international environmental discussions.
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