Minamata Initial Assessments in the Cook Islands

As International Technical Experts, BRI is assisting the Cook Islands in conducting a Minamata Initial Assessment (MIA). BRI is providing expertise to assist with the development of a national mercury inventory using UN Environment’s Toolkit for Identification and Quantification of Mercury Releases. The results of the MIA will assist the country with meeting requirements outlined by the Minamata Convention to reduce mercury in the environment and exposure of mercury to humans.

Formal Capacity: International Technical Expert

Project Lead: David Evers

Funding/Implementing Agency: GEF/UN Environment

Executing Agency: SPREP

The State of Mercury in the Pacific Region

Under the Minamata Convention, individual countries are charged with protecting human health and the environment from the risks of mercury exposure by systematically controlling mercury emissions and releases, including phasing out the use of mercury in certain products and processes. In order to assist with preparations for the ratification and implementation of the Convention, the Governments the Cook Islands, Kiribati, Palau, Tonga, and Vanuatu will conduct a Minamata Initial Assessment (MIA).

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Country Profile

  • Population: 10,900 (2011)
  • Surface Area: 236 sq km
  • Capital City: Avarua
  • Official Language: English, Rarotongan
  • Fish Production: 950 tons (FAO 2000