Global Mercury Observations: atmospheric monitoring and process studies in Sub-AnTarctic Regions and Antarctic Lands 3
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Global Mercury Observations: atmospheric monitoring and process studies in Sub-AnTarctic Regions and Antarctic Lands 3

Mercury (Hg) is a potent neurotoxin that is globally dispersed in the atmosphere. Humans are mostly exposed to mercury by eating seafood. In 2017, the Minamata Convention has come into force, which aims to limit the use, emissions and health impacts of mercury globally. The Convention’s effectiveness in lowering (i) mercury emissions, (ii) environmental concentrations of mercury and ultimately (iii) human exposure to mercury will have to be evaluated. How does the scientific community can contribute to assess the effectiveness of the convention and the government policies?

GMOSTRAL-3 proposes to work at improving process knowledge and decision tools such as models through:
– a continuous survey of atmospheric mercury (since 2012) at key sites of the Southern Hemisphere (Concordia Station and Amsterdam Island);
– the development of alternative strategies to monitor Hg (and other contaminants) at lower cost;
– a better parameterization of oxidation pathways of Hg using innovative approach (Hg isotopes, oxydized Hg speciation);
– coordinated campaigns on atmospheric oxidants (as halogens).