The U.S. Department of State awarded US$1 million to the Blacksmith Institute to work with Peru’s Ministry of Environment (Minam) to reduce the use of mercury and design remediation plans in Madre de Dios and Puno, it was announced today.
The U.S. Ambassador to Peru, Brian Nichols, said his government will keep on prioritizing the cooperation to reinforce the implementation of the Minamata Convention in Peru, Latin America and the Caribbean.
The United States believes it is crucial to support the Peruvian government strategy to combat illegal mining and reduce mercury use in artisanal and small-scale gold mining.
On the matter, Nichols mentioned the initiatives undertaken by the United States, along with the Peruvian Government, which range from the training of environmental prosecutors and judges to the public-private partnership to develop scientific capacity in Madre de Dios.
He said the South America Regional Environmental Affairs Office supports the efforts of Peru to develop national action plans required under the Minamata Agreement.
I urge you to consider our Environmental Affairs Office as a hub that can help you connect with your partners and other financing sources in the United States and international organizations,” he noted.
Nichols explained the participation of civil society is required to ensure an effective implementation of the Minamata Convention.
He said he was pleased to see the Natural Resources Defense Council participating actively in this activity, providing global leadership.
The diplomat hailed the Peruvian government’s commitment with the Minamata Convention to reduce mercury use in artisanal and small scale gold mining.
(END) LIT/MAO/RMB/MVB
Published: 3/17/2015