The European Commission launched, on Tuesday 8 February, a new public consultation to gather as many views as possible on a draft regulation to introduce further restrictions on the use of mercury in the EU and on international trade in this heavy metal that is highly toxic to human health and to the environment.
The Commission’s initiative is expected in the fourth quarter of 2022, through an amendment to Regulation EU/2017/852 transposing the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
Although the use of mercury is restricted in most EU products, in some products its use still occurs.
The restrictions envisaged concern the phasing out of mercury in dental amalgam and the prohibition, if necessary, of the manufacture and export of certain products containing mercury, such as lamps and measuring devices (see EUROPE 12673/8).
As mercury pollution is persistent, this use contributes to its accumulation in the environment, including in food.
The aim, according to the Commission, is both to contribute to the ‘Zero Pollution’ ambition of the European Green Deal and to provide a solid basis for international negotiations.
The consultation is open until 3 May at midnight, Brussels time.
To access it: https://aeur.eu/f/8h (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)