The e-commerce giant Amazon was accused of allowing the sale of illegal cosmetic products with mercury on its international platforms, according to a report released by the Zero Mercury Working Group (ZMWG).
The investigation, published on the eve of the COP-6 of the Minamata Convention, warns that skin lightening creams with concentrations thousands of times above the legal limit are still available in more than 23 countries, especially in regions where environmental regulations are less strict.
Mercury in cosmetics: a global threat
The study is based on purchases made in the United States, France, Belgium, India, Mexico, and the United Arab Emirates. Of the 31 creams analyzed in accredited laboratories in the EU and the U.S., 25 contained mercury levels far above the legal limit of 1 ppm, established by governments and by the “zero mercury” standard of the Minamata Convention.
“Consumers in the global south deserve the same safety standards as Amazon customers in the U.S.,” claimed Sofía Chávez Arce, director of the Mexican organization Casa Cem.
Double standards and lack of effective regulation
Despite a recent judicial agreement in the U.S. that requires Amazon to strengthen its controls, the report denounces that the company does not apply the same requirements in all countries.
In markets like Mexico, India, and the United Arab Emirates, mercury products remain available, while in the United States and Europe their presence is limited.
“Amazon must require mercury detection tests from all its sellers, regardless of the country,” stated Michael Bender, coordinator of the ZMWG.
COP-6: an opportunity to strengthen the Minamata Convention
The Conference of the Parties to the Minamata Convention (COP-6) will be held in Switzerland from November 3 to 7, with the aim of strengthening measures against the use of mercury, a highly toxic metal that poses a serious risk to human health and the environment.
Environmental impacts of illegal cosmetics
Cosmetic products containing mercury, lead, and other hazardous compounds generate multiple negative impacts:
Water pollution
- Heavy metals like mercury, arsenic, and lead pollute rivers, lakes, and oceans
- Microplastics present in the formulas are ingested by fish and enter the food chain
- Synthetic chemicals like parabens and sulfates affect aquatic flora and coral reefs
Soil pollution
- Toxic waste alters soil quality and affects crops
Plastic pollution
- Non-recyclable packaging increases the burden of plastic waste
- The production of ingredients like palm oil is linked to deforestation and habitat loss
Damage to ecosystems
- Substances like oxybenzone damage coral reefs and cause bleaching
- Widespread pollution contributes to the loss of marine and terrestrial biodiversity
Commercial and environmental justice: an urgent demand
The complaint against Amazon highlights the need for equitable global regulation, where all consumers have access to safe products, regardless of their country of residence.
The unequal application of standards perpetuates environmental and health injustices, especially in the global south.
