Advancing Bangladesh’s Commitment to Mercury Phase-Out by 2034
Mercury exposure remains a significant public health and environmental challenge globally. In dentistry, mercury-containing amalgam has long been used in restorative treatments, posing potential risks to human health—particularly for children—and contributing to environmental contamination when improperly managed. In line with Bangladesh’s commitment under the Minamata Convention on Mercury to phase out mercury in dentistry by 2034, the Environment and Social Development Organization-ESDO organized a Mercury-Free Dentistry (MFD) Awareness Campaign at Government Lalmatia Housing Society Uchcha Madhyamik Bidyalaya, Dhaka, to promote safe oral health practices and environmental responsibility among students, teachers, and young dental professionals.
The campaign brought together stakeholders from the health, education, and environmental sectors to promote safe and sustainable dental practices among students and teachers. Prof. Dr. Mosharraf Hossain Khandker, Former Line Director (ME & HMD), Directorate General of Medical Education, joined the program along with dental practitioners. The keynote education session was conducted by Dr. Foijun Nahar, who explained the health and environmental risks of mercury and demonstrated proper preventive oral hygiene practices.
The interactive awareness session engaged approximately 300 students from Classes 6–10 and participating teachers. Discussions focused on the health and environmental risks of mercury exposure, the benefits of mercury-free dental alternatives, and the importance of preventive oral healthcare. Students were encouraged to adopt responsible oral hygiene practices and to understand the connection between personal health and environmental protection.
In addition, a focused discussion was held with young dental professionals to encourage capacity building and professional commitment toward the gradual transition from mercury-containing dental amalgam to safer alternatives. The session addressed practical challenges, ethical responsibilities, and the role of emerging dentists in supporting Bangladesh’s national and global mercury phase-out commitments.
The initiative highlighted the importance of early education in fostering long-term behavioral change and demonstrated that promoting mercury-free dentistry requires coordinated action between health professionals, educators, and environmental advocates.
