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.