"Minamata Convention on Mercury Enters into Force"

"NEW YORK – The world’s first treaty to protect the environment and human health in nearly a decade, the Minamata Convention on Mercury, enters into force today, committing its 74 Parties, including the United States, to reducing the risks to human health and the environment from the harmful release of mercury and mercury compounds.

Mercury is a naturally-occurring heavy metal that accumulates in the body and is listed by the United Nations as one of the top 10 chemicals endangering health and the environment.

Exposure to mercury can harm the brain, heart, kidneys, lungs, and immune system, particularly in unborn children and babies.

The 74 governments that are parties to the Convention are now legally bound to take measures to protect human health and the environment by addressing mercury throughout its lifecycle."

Environment News Service had the story August 16, 2017.

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"China To Ban Primary Mercury Mining By 2032 As Convention Comes Into Force" (Reuters)