BROCHURE ABOUT THE ASGM INNOVATION PROGRAMME To support the implementation of the Minamata Convention at community level, in line with the strategies of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on chemicals and waste management, the GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) seeks to pilot and test innovative community-based mercury reduction and management practices. These specifically address the prevention, reduction, and elimination of mercury use and contamination, and promotion of safe handling of mercury-containing products. Since 2011, SGP has supported 66 mercury management projects with a total funding of more than $2 million. In July 2018, SGP launched an innovation programme on ASGM to address mercury contamination and its threat to the ecosystem and the health of poor and vulnerable populations. SGP has combined its country-driven approach with proactive global support on capacity development, knowledge sharing, and networking within SGP and beyond with partners in the implementation of this programme. With a total funding of $2 million to catalyze actions in this emerging area, this ASGM Innovation Program is implemented in the following seven countries, in close collaboration with the Global Opportunities for Long-term Development in Artisanal and Small Scale Mining Programme (GEF GOLD) and other partners including Zero Mercury Working Group. Other countries may join at a later stage.