The NGO “Independent Ecological Expertise” conducted activities in order to develop a National Action Plan for the Khaidarkan mercury mine, with the goal to reduce mercury contamination of the environment and human health. These activities included: 1) Collection of data on mercury management, 2) Analysis of this information to identify potential areas of regulation, 3) Drafting of a “Concept on measures for mercury management at all phases of its life cycle in the Kyrgyz Republic", 4) Awareness-raising and signture gathering campaign among the public, 5) Roundtables held with government representatives and other stakeholders, and 6) Recommendation for the design and implementation of a National Plan. Important dialogue between NGOs and government was undertaken via this project. Additionally, media coverage through print and tv channels helped to publicize the activities.
