What is the Minamata Convention?
In order to understand the future-facing mission of Dental Recycling International South Africa (DRISA), it’s important to start with the history that led to its creation; specifically, the story of the Minamata Convention, which clarifies the potentially detrimental effects of mercury exposure on human and environmental health.The Minamata Convention on Mercury targets those human activities responsible for mercury pollution worldwide. In the 1950s, Minimata, a city located in Japan, suffered a critical issue of mercury poisoning that lasted for decades, following the discharge of industrial wastewater into Minamata Bay from a chemical manufacturer.
The resulting bioaccumulation of mercury in the bay’s fish and shellfish resulted in severe illness in anyone who had consumed them. In some cases, the illness proved fatal or resulted in severe disabilities.
Mercury and Minamata Disease: a Lesson from Japan
In the late 1950s, people and animals in the Japanese fishing village of Minamata began to fall ill to a strange disease, which mainly affects the central nervous system. In severe cases, victims fell into a coma and died within weeks. Researchers later found that high levels of methylmercury, the most toxic form of mercury, in the industrial wastewater from a chemical factory was the cause of the disease and named it Minamata disease.
A Continuing Problem
The United States signed the Minamata Convention on Mercury in 2013. Despite efforts here in the United States to minimize mercury emissions, global awareness and action are required for effective remediation.Unfortunately, mercury travels via air and water and can actually move thousands of miles as a pollutant. Some research asserts that global sources account for approximately 70% of mercury found in the United States.
Our Team
We couldn’t do what we do without our dedicated team of professionals who collaborate tirelessly to disrupt the status quo and deliver cutting-edge, cost-effective solutions directly to dentists worldwide.Globally, we are committed to enhancing human health and safety worldwide by upholding the requirements and guidelines presented by the Minamata Convention.
Marc M. Sussman
Chairman, President & CEO
Gabe Farrell
Chief Operating Office & CFO
James Sisto
Senior Legal Strategic Legal Advisor
Greg Schultz
Senior Government Affairs Advisor
Dr. Al Frost
Vice President of Clinical Affairs
Rhiannon McHugh
Senior Marketing Consultant
History
DRI was founded in 2015 with the goal of being a leading global provider of amalgam waste recycling as well as other waste streams in dental offices. DRISA was then started to provide local support to our customers and partners in South Africa.
Our goal established then remains the same today: to be the best compliance solution at the best cost for the dental professional.
Events
Keep up with the DRISA by checking this page for upcoming events, such as:
SADA Dental & Oral Health Congress and Exhibition, Aug 30-Sept 1
Come visit us at booth B1 at the upcoming SADA Dental & Oral Health Congress and Exhibition event starting August 30th. Our team is looking forward to meeting dentists and partners in South Africa at the SADA Congress event and hope to see you there.
