By Ere-ebi Agedah Imisi
In commemorating international earth day, Pure Earth Ghana, a non-profit organization, has urged government agencies, international bodies, and other stakeholders to enhance policies, invest in clean technologies, and enforce regulations to curb mercury and lead emissions.
It also called for collective effort to support research and grassroots initiatives aimed at tracking and mitigating the negative impact of mercury and lead pollution on the environment.
This was contained in a message by its Country Director, Rev. Dr Esmond Wisdom Quansah, to mark the International Earth Day, noting that the Earth is all we have, and we must do everything to protect it.
‘‘Together, we can forge a path to a cleaner, safer planet’’
‘‘This Earth Day, let us renew our pledge to protect human health and the environment from the perilous effects of mercury and lead.
“Let us honour Earth Day by committing to a pollution-free planet and safeguarding our future generations” it stated.
Suffice to note that Mercury pollution poses significant health risks to humans, primarily through the consumption of contaminated fish and seafood. It can cause neurological disorders, particularly in children and developing fetuses, leading to cognitive and motor impairments. Additionally, mercury exposure may damage the kidneys, respiratory, and immune systems.
On World Earth Day, raising awareness about mercury’s impact is crucial to encourage safer industrial practices and reduce environmental contamination.
The organisation further revealed that mercury and lead pollution present grim realities in various Ghanaian communities, contributing to severe environmental degradation and health crises.
Also, a global treaty named Minamata Convention on Mercury, ratified by over 128 countries including Ghana, has identified mercury as a chemical of global concern due to its significant negative effect on human health and the environment.
