Commission proposes to ban mercury exports by 2011 

The proposed regulation will cover all European exports of mercury from 2011, a substance highly toxic to both humans and the environment. All remaining mercury still at large after this date will have to be safely stored.

The development comes on the back of the EU mercury strategy which was launched by the Commission in 2005. It contained 20 measures to reduce mercury emissions, cut supply and demand and protect against exposure. Mercury use has been declining both in the EU and globally. Currently Spain is the only EU country which continues to mine the substance. The chlor-alkali industry is the other main European user of mercury but has agreed, along with the Spanish government, to the 2011 date.

Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas said: "In banning exports of mercury and requiring its safe storage, the EU will be setting an example for global action to reduce emissions. I urge other countries to support moves towards a worldwide agreement."

Environmental NGOs welcomed the Commission’s move as a first step towards a global ban but were disappointed that the ban would not include mercury compounds and mercury-containing products. In addition, they expressed concern that “the Commission is allowing the potential for permanent storage of mercury, before an environmentally sound method guaranteeing such an approach, is developed and understood”.

The proposed regulation will now go to the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers for approval under the co-decision procedure.