Introduction to Terms Relevant to the Discussion of Mercury Storage and Disposal - 9th Draft

Mercury is a chemical of global concern owing to its long-range atmospheric transport, its persistence in the environment once anthropogenically introduced, its ability to bioaccumulate in ecosystems and its significant negative effects on human health and the environment. In order to assist discussions within the Partnership on Supply and Storage, important terms with relevance to storage of elemental mercury and to storage and disposal of waste consisting of elemental mercury and waste containing or contaminated with mercury have been identified. These are presented in the format of a “Question and Answer” (Q & A) to provide a basic overview. This document: presents general descriptions of important terms; refers to relevant definitions from chemical and waste conventions, notably the Basel Convention, where available and applicable; provides background information on complex terms and issues; groups synonymous terms. This document is for information only. Descriptions and definitions presented for various terms are not intended to pre-empt any discussions or decisions to be undertaken at upcoming mercury Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee sessions. Nevertheless, the document may serve as a basis for starting discussions.