Linking science and policy to support the implementation of the Minamata Convention on Mercury

The Minamata Convention on Mercury, with its objective to protect human health and the environment from the dangers of mercury (Hg), entered into force in 2017. The Convention outlines a life-cycle approach to the production, use, emissions, releases, handling, and disposal of Hg. As it moves into t...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Selin, Henrik, Keane, Susan E, Wang, Shuxiao, Davis, Kenneth, Bally, Dominique, Keane, Susan Egan, Selin, Noelle E
Other Authors: Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Springer-Verlag 2018
Online Access:http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/114432
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6396-5622
Description
Summary:The Minamata Convention on Mercury, with its objective to protect human health and the environment from the dangers of mercury (Hg), entered into force in 2017. The Convention outlines a life-cycle approach to the production, use, emissions, releases, handling, and disposal of Hg. As it moves into the implementation phase, scientific work and information are critically needed to support decision-making and management. This paper synthesizes existing knowledge and examines three areas in which researchers across the natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences can mobilize and disseminate knowledge in support of Hg abatement and the realization of the Convention’s objective: (1) uses, emissions, and releases; (2) support, awareness raising, and education; and (3) impacts and effectiveness. The paper ends with a discussion of the future of Hg science and policy. Keywords: environmental treaty implementation; mercury; minamata convention; science–policy; toxic pollution