Mercury, a heavy, silvery-white metal that remains liquid at room temperature and easily evaporates, poses a hidden but serious threat to millions in Bangladesh. Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern, mercury exposure—even in small amounts—can cause severe health problems, particularly affecting the development of children during pregnancy and early life. It damages the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes. Once released into the environment, mercury can persist for decades, contaminating fish, soil, and water sources.
For Bangladesh, mercury control is not just an environmental challenge—it is a critical public health priority. On April 18, 2023, Bangladesh ratified the Minamata Convention on Mercury, an international treaty aimed at protecting human health and the environment from mercury exposure.
Despite well-known risks, mercury continues to be used in various consumer and medical products in Bangladesh. The most concerning sectors include dental amalgam, skin-lightening products, and certain medical devices, along with fluorescent lamps.
Dental Amalgam: A Risk Hidden in Smiles
Dental amalgam—a mixture of mercury, silver, tin, and copper—has been widely used for decades to fill cavities. Containing about 50% elemental mercury, amalgam can release harmful vapours during placement, removal, or as fillings wear down. The Bangladesh Dental Society has officially announced that amalgam should not be used for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under 15. While many dental colleges and practitioners have started adopting mercury-free alternatives like composite resins and glass ionomer cements, the transition remains slow. Without government guidelines, affordable substitutes, and proper disposal systems, rural clinics will likely continue using amalgam, contributing to ongoing mercury pollution. Bangladesh is obligated by the Minamata Convention to phase out amalgam use, yet swift progress is essential to meet this goal.
Mercury in Cosmetics: The Price of Beauty
Mercury is also present in some skin-lightening creams and makeup products in Bangladesh, often promoted with promises of fairer and brighter skin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that mercury exposure can cause serious health problems not only to users but also to their families, who may inhale vapours or come into contact with contaminated towels or washcloths.
The Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) regulates mercury in cosmetics, limiting it to one part per million (1 ppm). In 2025, BSTI banned 19 face-whitening creams containing unsafe levels of mercury and hydroquinone. Still, many non-compliant products circulate widely through online platforms and markets, continuing to pose significant health risks. Globally, at the 2023 Minamata Convention COP-5, countries agreed to remove the 1 ppm limit and fully ban mercury in cosmetics—including skin-lightening products—starting in 2025. Bangladesh must now strengthen enforcement to protect its citizens.
Medical Devices and Mercury: An Overlooked Hazard
Mercury is also used in medical devices such as thermometers, blood pressure monitors (sphygmomanometers), and fluorescent lamps. Though safer, mercury-free alternatives exist, many hospitals and clinics—especially in rural areas—still rely on older mercury-based equipment due to cost and limited awareness. Improper disposal of these devices often releases mercury into the environment, threatening healthcare workers and local communities.
A Call to Action: Protecting Health and the Environment
Bangladesh’s ratification of the Minamata Convention is an important milestone—but it is only the first step. To meet its obligations under the Convention and safeguard public health, urgent and coordinated action is needed.
This includes implementing strong government regulations, ensuring strict enforcement, conducting market surveillance, and establishing safe waste disposal systems. Public awareness campaigns are vital to educate consumers about the dangers of mercury and encourage safer choices. Additionally, support for affordable mercury-free alternatives is essential to enable a smooth transition. Manufacturers, health professionals, policymakers, and consumers all have critical roles to play in eliminating mercury exposure from everyday products. Success depends on collective action—from policymakers down to community members.
Only by working together can Bangladesh eliminate mercury exposure, protect its environment, and ensure a healthier future for generations to come. The silent threat of mercury can no longer be ignored. Protecting the health of Bangladesh’s families and its environment requires bold action today—not tomorrow.