Global Mercury Observation and Training Network in Support to the Minamata Convention

Project Information

GMOS-Train

Grant agreement ID: 860497

DOI

10.3030/860497

Project closed

EC signature date 11 September 2019

Start date 1 January 2020

End date 31 December 2024

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 3 921 678,29

EU contribution

€ 3 921 678,29

Coordinated by

INSTITUT JOZEF STEFAN
Slovenia

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - GMOS-Train (Global Mercury Observation and Training Network in Support to the Minamata Convention)

Reporting period: 2022-01-01 to 2024-12-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The GMOS-Train Project, conducted from January 2020 to December 2024, addressed the pressing global issue of mercury (Hg) pollution, which is recognized as a major threat to environmental and human health. Mercury’s toxic properties, combined with its ability to bioaccumulate and biomagnify in food webs, have led to widespread contamination in ecosystems, particularly affecting aquatic environments. The project aligned closely with the objectives of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, an international treaty designed to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of mercury. GMOS-Train sought to fill critical gaps in scientific knowledge regarding mercury dynamics, develop innovative monitoring tools, and train a new generation of researchers to tackle these challenges.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

GMOS-Train achieved significant advancements in mercury science, policy, and public engagement. These include innovative monitoring technologies, enhanced understanding of mercury dynamics, and improved global models. The project’s findings directly support the Minamata Convention, providing strategies to reduce mercury emissions and mitigate environmental and health impacts. By training a new generation of researchers and increasing public awareness, GMOS-Train has laid the foundation for ongoing progress in addressing mercury pollution, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.

The GMOS-Train project has successfully addressed its objectives, producing impactful results in mercury science, monitoring technology, and policy support. Its achievements include the collection of vast datasets, the development of advanced monitoring tools, and significant contributions to global mercury models and mitigation strategies. The interdisciplinary training provided to 15 ESRs has ensured the emergence of a new generation of researchers well-equipped to tackle future environmental challenges. By aligning with the goals of the Minamata Convention and fostering global collaboration, the project has made a lasting contribution to mercury management and environmental sustainability.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

GMOS-Train has progressed well beyond the state of the art in mercury research, delivering transformative results in monitoring technology, scientific understanding, and policy support. These contributions address critical gaps in mercury science and provide innovative solutions for monitoring and mitigating mercury pollution. The project’s impacts, from its advancements in global mercury models to its training of future experts and strengthening of international policy frameworks, ensure that its legacy will have a lasting influence on global mercury management and environmental sustainability.

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