All the Nordic countries have introduced strict restrictions on the use of mercury. However, it is not enough for the Nordic Region to clean up its own backyard - mercury is a cross-border problem which demands global solutions.

The Co-operation on Mercury within the UN Environment Programme, UNEP, is a shining example of how the Nordic countries can successfully drive global processes together. Because of its active role, the UNEP has granted the holding of First Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to Prepare a Global Legally Binding Instrument on Mercury, INC1, to the Nordic Region.

The Mercury conference, funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers, is being organised in Sweden from 7-11 June 2010. The aim is to lay the groundwork for a binding and ambitious agreement to address the environmental and health risks associated with mercury. The agreement is scheduled to be in place in 2013.

The Nordic Council of Ministers will be visible at the conferences in a variety of ways. For example, the Council of Ministers  arranged a well attended fringe event on Tuesday 8 June from 13 - 14 in the Gallery at the conference hotel. A new Nordic report was presented at the event attracting approximately 130 participants. The report shows how, with the use of modern technology, it is possible to reduce mercury emissions from, for example, power plants.

Nordic mercury co-operation will also be presented at a stand throughout the whole conference week.

Mercury is one of the most dangerous environmental poisons in the world. Mercury can be transformed into the highly toxic form of methylmercury which then accumulates in fish, for example. The inhabitants of the Arctic region, who depend on marine resources, are especially vulnerable. Research shows that the foetus in pregnant women exposed to high levels of mercury can be born with damage to the central nervous system.