12 August 2014
UNEP Highlights ASGM Mercury Recovery Project
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The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Global Mercury Partnership has reported on the results of a joint project with the Blacksmith Institute and Yayasan Tambuhak Sinta, funded by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

The project trained artisanal and small-scale gold-miners (ASGM) in Indonesia to use better mercury recovery techniques.

UNEP25 July 2014: The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Global Mercury Partnership has reported on the results of a joint project with the Blacksmith Institute and Yayasan Tambuhak Sinta, funded by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The project trained artisanal and small-scale gold-miners (ASGM) in Indonesia to use better mercury recovery techniques.

According to the Global Mercury Partnership, the project focused on improving processing techniques. Ten sluices, 90 retorts and 50 water-box condensers were distributed to miners who had been trained in their use.

The project also held awareness-raising events on the dangers of mercury, involving mercury miners and processors, health professionals, school teachers and NGO leaders. The project also gathered data on mercury releases from the ASGM sector, and brought together key national stakeholders to develop a national strategic plan for the AGSM sector considering broader sustainable development objectives. [UNEP Press Release] [UNEP Global Mercury Partnership Website] [Mercury Partnership Story of the Month]

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