The Minamata Convention on Mercury is a global treaty dedicated to safeguarding human health and the environment from the harmful effects of mercury. This convention sheds light on the widespread and constant presence of mercury, a naturally occurring metal with numerous applications in our everyday lives, which can be released into the atmosphere, soil, and water from multiple sources. The convention sets forth crucial measures to control the release of mercury throughout its lifecycle.

Key provisions of the Minamata Convention include a ban on new mercury mines, the gradual elimination of existing ones, the phase-out and reduction of mercury use in various products and processes, strict controls on emissions to air as well as releases to land and water, and regulation of the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector. The convention also addresses interim storage and proper disposal of mercury once it becomes waste, remediation of mercury-contaminated sites, and health-related concerns. Adopted in 2013, the Minamata Convention entered into force in 2017 and currently has 144 parties and 145 focal points actively involved.

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