Workshop 1
Strengthening Research Capacity on Mercury in Low and Middle-Income Countries with a Focus on Vulnerable Populations
Presenters: Koichi Haraguchi, Mitsugu “Mick” Saito
Duration: 3hrs
Time slot: Morning (09h00 – 12h00)
Workshop Objectives:
To strengthen mercury survey capabilities in low- and middle-income countries.
Abstract:
It is essential to assess and monitor mercury exposure to evaluate the effectiveness of the Minamata Convention. People in low- and middle-income countries are exposed to mercury in various ways, and different countries have different priorities and research capacities. The aim of this workshop is to facilitate exchange of knowledge about improving the capabilities of mercury analysis laboratories and promoting sustainable mercury management through tailored approaches and collaboration. It is supported by the United Nations Environment Programme, countries in the Asia–Pacific region, and the National Institute for Minamata Disease to encourage sharing of knowledge and expertise. The goal is to foster cooperation and knowledge exchange between countries affected by mercury pollution, with a particular emphasis on developing countries.
Content:
- For Areas Without Existing Mercury Analysis:
- Procedures for requesting mercury analysis.
- Sharing survey designs of successful case studies.
- For Regions Conducting Mercury Analysis:
- Sharing best practices to improve mercury analysis laboratory facilities in the Asia–Pacific region.
- Laboratory assessment: evaluating the capacities of mercury analysis laboratories.
- Addressing the needs and challenges of regions containing small island communities reliant on seafood (TBD), tropical riverine communities, and e-waste recycling industries.
- Assessment of national entire life cycle mercury flows. (TBD).
Presenter Affiliations / Biographies:
Koichi Haraguchi – http://nimd.env.go.jp/english/about/organization/member07.html
Mitsugu “Mick” Saito- https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mitsugu-Saito