Global use of mercury

Description

While mercury is a naturally occurring element, human activity has increased concentrations in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems around the globe. Major sources of emissions include artisanal and small-scale gold mining and coal combustion outside the Arctic.

Source:
Mercury: Acting Now!, UNEP Chemicals Branch, UNEP, 2013; Technical Background Report for the Global Mercury Assessment, Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP), 2013; Global Mercury Assessment 2013: Sources, Emissions, Releases and Environmental Transport, UNEP; Global Mercury Supply, Trade and Demand, UNEP, 2017.