The world has taken a major step toward protecting human health and the environment from the dangers of mercury.
The United Nations’ Minamata Convention on Mercury has officially banned the manufacture and trade of dental amalgam containing mercury. This ban will take effect globally on 1 January 2035.
The decision was made during the sixth Conference of the Parties (COP6) to the Convention. It marks a significant milestone in the European Union’s ongoing efforts to reduce mercury exposure and strengthen environmental protection.
Notably, EU law has already prohibited the use and export of mercury-added dental amalgam since 1 January 2025.
In line with its commitment to global environmental safety, the EU actively participated in COP6, held from 3 to 7 November 2025 in Geneva.
The meeting focused on advancing international efforts to phase out mercury in healthcare and other industries.