Minamata COP-6 Advances Global Mercury Phase-Outs, Including Dental Amalgam

The sixth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury (COP-6) concluded in Geneva on 7 November 2025, with over 1,000 in-person participants and nearly 4,000 online viewers. The Parties adopted 22 decisions, including the landmark global phase-out of dental amalgam by 2034 as well as strengthened measures against mercury-added skin-lightening products. Delegates also advanced efforts to reduce mercury use in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), promote supply-chain transparency, and combat the illegal mercury trade. Financial support through the Global Environment Facility’s next funding cycle (GEF-9) and preparations for the Convention’s first effectiveness evaluation were emphasized, while engagement from women, young people and Indigenous Peoples reached new levels.

New Mercury Phase-Out Measures

The COP-6 decisions included amendments to Annex A to eliminate dental amalgam, enhanced cooperation with the World Health Organization on skin-lightening products, and limited extensions for countries still transitioning from certain mercury-added items. The Parties reinforced actions relating to ASGM by supporting alternative livelihoods, accountability across the gold supply chain, and collaboration with the Global Mercury Partnership. Guidance on mercury stocks, illegal trade strategies and harmonized customs codes was updated, and an expert group on mercury compounds was established. Delegates also encouraged the alignment of mercury-reduction measures with biodiversity strategies and supported digital knowledge tools, including possible AI applications.

Highlights and Activities

Throughout the week, COP-6 hosted activities with the Geneva Environment Network and partners. The included events on mercury pollution in the Amazon, the launch of the Minamata Women’s Caucus, and discussions on planetGOLD. The Global Mercury Partnership organized exhibitions and film screenings addressing harmful beauty practices, while 19 Knowledge Labs facilitated technical exchange. COP-7 will take place in Geneva from 14 to 18 June 2027 under the presidency of Marie-Claire L'Henry.