Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment, has issued a statement on international agreement to work towards a UN treaty that would reduce the amount of mercury entering the environment.
The minister supports the treaty “to control this harmful substance.”
“Canada was among the first countries to stress the importance of securing a legally binding agreement and I wish to recognize the leadership shown by a number of countries, in particular, the United States, India and China.”
While Canada has reduced its mercury emissions at home, roughly 80 per cent of the mercury deposited in Canada comes from other countries. “By supporting negotiations on an international agreement to reduce global mercury pollution, we can ensure greater protection for the environment and health of Canadians, particularly in the Arctic,” said Prentice, pledging that Canada will play a leadership role as negotiations unfold.
