EcoWaste Calls for Regulation of Mercury Products Online
Environmental group EcoWaste Coalition has urged government agencies to tighten controls over the online trade of mercury and mercury-containing products. They found more than 1,000 online listings promoting these toxic substances despite existing bans. This call highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of regulations to protect public health.
EcoWaste specifically asked regulators to enforce Republic Act No. 11967, the Internet Transactions Act, by imposing penalties on those who sell mercury products illegally online. The group’s recent investigation revealed widespread availability of these hazardous items, putting many consumers at risk.
Extensive Online Listings Found
Between July 21 and 31, EcoWaste searched numerous e-commerce and social media platforms. They uncovered 1,146 listings offering mercury or mercury-added products. These included skin lightening creams, medical devices, liquid mercury for mining, and even mercury claimed to counteract black magic.
Among these, 1,057 listings were for skin lightening products that the FDA has flagged for containing mercury or being sold without authorization. The remaining listings involved 53 mercury-based medical devices, 34 liquid mercury items for mining, and two listings promoting mercury for kulam or barang.
Government Agencies Urged to Act
In response, EcoWaste sent formal letters to the Department of Trade and Industry, Environmental Management Bureau, and Food and Drug Administration. They emphasized the need to shut down online stores selling banned mercury products immediately. The group stressed that these products pose serious health risks and should not be available to the public.
EcoWaste also encouraged regulators to inform consumers about the Internet Transactions Act. By raising awareness, people can learn how to report online sellers violating the law, helping to curb the illegal mercury trade effectively.
International and Local Regulations Highlighted
The coalition pointed to the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, FDA warnings, and the Minamata Convention on Mercury as key legal frameworks banning mercury-containing skin lightening products. Despite these laws, the persistent online sales demonstrate a gap in enforcement that needs urgent attention.
“Based on the search conducted, the group identified at least 1,146 of such product listings, including 1,057 for skin lightening products flagged by the FDA for containing mercury and/or for being sold without the necessary authorization,” said local environmental advocates.
Protecting Consumers from Mercury Hazards
Mercury exposure can cause severe health problems, including neurological and kidney damage. EcoWaste’s findings reveal how easily consumers could be unknowingly exposed through online purchases. Closing these digital storefronts and educating the public are essential steps to safeguard health and uphold environmental justice.
For more news and updates on mercury product regulation, visit Filipinokami.com.
