Abstract
The intergovernmental negotiating committee to prepare a global legally binding instrument on mercury (INC) began negotiations in 2010. In January 2013, the INC agreed on the text set forth in the “Minamata Convention on Mercury”. The Convention aims to control mercury throughout its full lifecycle : from supply and use to emission/release and waste disposal, with regard to the global environment. The text will be presented for adoption and opened for signature at the Conference of Plenipotentiaries (Diplomatic Conference), scheduled to take place in Kumamoto and Minamata, Japan in October 2013. As a country that has experienced Minamata Diseases, Japan has been participating in the INC process proactively for the successful outcome of these negotiations. At present, Japan is forcasting on the measures for the implementation of the Convention in the hope of its early ratification. Japan is also assisting developing countries in their capacity development activities with the aim of entering into force of the Convention as early as possible. In addition, Japan also continues to participate in the UNEP Global Mercury Partnership which is expected to compliment the implementation of the Mercury Convention, especially in the area of waste management partnership.
