The Secretariat of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, in collaboration with the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) and with financial support from the European Union, has launched “Minamata Tools”, a set of interactive training modules designed to explain the Convention and assist in the fight against mercury pollution.
The online learning platform aims to support Parties in meeting their obligations under the Convention. Minamata Tools is targeted primarily at national focal points of the Convention, who are designated by Parties for the exchange of information, but it also offers accessible information and knowledge for both entry-level and experienced officials.
Executive Secretary, Monika Stankiewicz, stated: “Minamata Tools will help us enhance the training and information surrounding our fight against toxic mercury, a crucial element for the effective implementation of the Convention. This online learning platform aims to further empower national focal points and other officials while also providing key resources to partners everywhere. A cornerstone of our Secretariat’s mandate, we firmly believe that, by providing accessible capacity-building, we are building solid foundations for a healthier, safer planet for all.”
The platform currently offers four modules, which are listed to include:
- Introduction: exploring the Convention’s purpose, the important role of national focal points, the different reporting obligations, and how to better plan for preparing the National Reports.
- Supply sources and trade: covering the provisions related to responsible practices in managing mercury mining, stocks and trade in mercury.
- Products and processes: addressing the phase-out of mercury manufacture, import and export in consumer and industrial products, as well as the use of mercury in manufacturing processes.
- Emissions: focusing on the provisions and guidance related to controlling and mitigating emissions of mercury and mercury compounds into the atmosphere.
The modules offered through Minamata Tools are available for free and provide a certification upon completion. The online platform is currently in English, with plans for translation into French and Spanish in a near future.
National focal points, officials and other stakeholders are encouraged to enroll here.
