Recognizing the sector was estimated to be a major source of mercury emissions and releases, the Partnership Advisory Group decided at its tenth meeting (Geneva, 23 November 2019) to initiate work on mercury from non-ferrous metals mining and smelting, which it had identified as a cross-cutting topic amongst several Partnership areas.
In follow up to expert consultations launched in April 2020, the development of a study report was initiated, with the aim to, amongst others, provide a better understanding of the mercury mass balance globally between supply, storage, and waste treatment related to non-ferrous metals mining and smelting operations.
The development of the study report benefitted from a consultative process, involving experts from governments, intergovernmental organizations, civil society, academia and the private sector, members of the Partnership as well as from other relevant organizations, including calls for comments and discussions at expert consultations in April 2021.
The final version of the report Mercury from Non-ferrous Metals Mining and Smelting was presented to the thirteenth meeting of the Partnership Advisory Group (9 and 10 November 2022, Paris) for consideration and discussion on possible next steps.
