ICMGP 2026 to Make Historic Debut in Southeast Asia

The 17th edition of the International Conference on Mercury as a Global Pollutant (ICMGP) will be held in Hyderabad India from October 4–9, 2026, marking a historic milestone as the conference convenes for the first time in Southeast Asia. This event aims to centre regional voices, strengthen global collaboration, and catalyse innovative science and policy on mercury pollution.

Hosted under the theme “Mercury Science Driving Global Change: From South Asia to the World”, ICMGP 2026 will bring together scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and community stakeholders to address the complex and evolving challenges of mercury pollution—from atmospheric transport and ocean contamination to environmental health and bioaccumulation.

The Scientific Steering Committee (SSC) met recently to lay the foundation for an inclusive, scientifically rich, and policy-relevant program. With confirmed participation from 14 internationally recognised experts across disciplines and regions, the planning process is well underway.

“We are proud to bring ICMGP to Southeast Asia for the very first time,” said Prof. Asif Qureshi, SSC member from the Indian Institute of Technology-Hyderabad. “This edition is not only about mercury science—it’s about elevating Global South perspectives and creating pathways where scientific discovery directly informs environmental policy.”

The organising committee has outlined a strategic vision with four core pillars:

•    Equitable Representation: Ensuring inclusive participation across regions, disciplines, and career stages

•    Global South Focus: Highlighting mercury-related challenges unique to India and the wider Global South

•    Scientific Excellence: Delivering high-quality theme-based sessions, training workshops, and public engagement programs

•    Science-Policy Interface: Translating research findings into actionable policy guidance

Themes and Sessions

The conference program will be structured around eight major themes, reflecting the multi-disciplinary nature of mercury science:

1.    Atmosphere

2.    Oceans

3.    Cryosphere / Poles

4.    Land and Vegetation

5.    Bioaccumulation

6.    Environmental Health

7.    Science & Policy

8.    New Laboratory Analysis or Modelling Techniques

In addition to General Sessions welcoming broad participation, ICMGP 2026 will feature Special Sessions on focused topics—ranging from emerging monitoring networks and modelling initiatives to industrial innovations and global policy developments, particularly under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.