February 27th, Commitment to Control Mercury Day
February 27th, Commitment to Control Mercury Day, was established by the UN with the aim of raising global awareness about the negative impacts of mercury on the environment and human health. The date highlights the importance of strict control over the use and release of this toxic element, promoting more sustainable and safe practices in the fight against pollution.
Mercury is a highly dangerous heavy metal, widely used in various sectors, such as industry, mining and even in consumer products, such as thermometers and light bulbs. Continuous exposure to it can cause serious damage to the nervous system, kidneys and even fetal development, in addition to being responsible for the contamination of ecosystems and the food chain.
Mercury control gained international prominence with the signing of the Minamata Convention in 2013, which seeks to reduce, and eventually eliminate, the use of mercury in industrial activities. International Mercury Control Commitment Day is an opportunity for governments, environmental organizations and citizens to reflect on the urgency of taking action to mitigate the effects of this pollutant and seek safer alternative solutions.
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