In April 1997, a milestone was set — The Great Lakes Basin Bi-National Toxics Strategy called for virtual elimination of mercury.

One year later — The New England Governors & Eastern Canadian Premiers 1998 Mercury Reduction Plan launched mercury reduction efforts in the Northeast.

It's been five years since — the Baltimore 2000 Mercury Reduction Conference propelled and shaped mercury reduction efforts nationwide…

Four years since — The Quicksilver Caucus united interstate organizations to focus on national policy…

Each of these events was a milestone, instrumental in launching subsequent projects and programs that have resulted in a large- scale reduction of mercury both regionally and nationally.

"Achieving Mercury Reductions in Products and Waste" was funded and designed specifically for federal, state, tribal, local government, and university-based mercury reduction program coordinators, staff, and regulators.

The two and a half day conference focused on various state, regional, and national mercury reduction programs, with three session tracks:

• Sectors: Schools, Dental Clinics, and Medical Facilities
• Mercury Reduction Policy & Legislation
• Mercury Added Products

Presentations Provided Case Studies & Tools for:

• Auto switch collection programs
• Outreach & assistance to hospitals, dental clinics, and schools
• Thermometer & thermostat collection & reduction projects
• Partnering with industry & other private sector groups
• Promoting lamp recycling
• Encouraging reductions in other mercury wastes & products
• Mercury reduction legislation
• Much more...

There were also small exhibits for participants to showcase representative products, helpful tools, templates and examples for building successful mercury reduction programs.

The conference participants shared successes, lessons learned, new opportunities, and how to address challenges.