National Implementation Plan for Preventing Environmental Pollution of Mercury and Mercury Compounds.

Japan’s National Implementation Plan for Preventing Environmental Pollution of Mercury and Mercury Compounds reflects Japan’s commitment to environmental health and international cooperation under the Minamata Convention, aiming to minimize mercury pollution and prevent health risks associated with mercury exposure, based on its historical experience with Minamata disease.
The Plan bans or restricts mercury use in various products, such as thermometers, batteries, and lighting, with set phase-out timelines. Manufacturing processes that use mercury, like chlor-alkali production, are also transitioning to mercury-free alternatives. The Plan imposes strict limits on emissions from industries and mandates monitoring of mercury release into the atmosphere, water, and soil. Specific attention is given to controlling emissions from waste incineration and industrial processes. The Plan promotes safe disposal and recycling of mercury-added products, with local governments encouraged to support collection efforts. Guidelines are set for the environmentally sound storage and disposal of mercury waste, along with measures to handle mercury-contaminated sites safely. Manufacturers and importers are expected to inform consumers about proper disposal methods. Japan prohibits the export of mercury for banned purposes, closely monitoring legal exports to ensure they align with authorized uses. This minimizes illegal mercury trading and supports global pollution control efforts.
In addition, the Plan promotes education on mercury hazards, encourages mercury-free alternatives, and enhances international cooperation for mercury reduction.