In response to the pressing need for comprehensive and effective management of mercury contamination, the Mercury-Free City community has developed the LIFE e-HUB Platform. This platform is strategically designed to consolidate information, foster communication, and promote cooperation among stakeholders committed to reducing mercury usage and implementing EU mercury legislation and the Minamata Convention. The primary objectives of LIFE e-HUB are multi-faceted, ranging from information dissemination to the creation of a collaborative network that facilitates knowledge sharing on successful environmental solutions and practices.
The first objective of LIFE e-HUB is to establish a centralized informational hub, catering to diverse target groups interested in the reduction of mercury contamination caused by household goods and activities. Through this platform, the project aims to efficiently manage information related to mercury, ensuring compliance with legislative frameworks while addressing the specific challenges posed by mercury contamination. This approach encompasses the entire lifecycle of mercury usage, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and responsible practices in households.
Under the second objective, LIFE e-HUB aims to facilitate knowledge sharing by developing a robust cooperation network. This network will serve as a dynamic platform for collecting, processing, and sharing information, conducting informational campaigns, and organizing training initiatives. By fostering collaboration among practitioners, the platform seeks to accelerate the adoption of successful environmental solutions in the field of mercury contamination. The incorporation of forums, informational pages, and a Moodle-based platform for Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) enhances the multifunctional characteristics of LIFE e-HUB.
This electronic hub will serve as a centralized communication space for Mercury-Free Communities, providing households with practical information in multiple languages. The establishment, growth, and upkeep of this platform not only contribute to the project’s sustainability but also lay the groundwork for future initiatives. This virtual space ensures cost-effective communication, particularly during times of global challenges such as pandemics, while simultaneously providing a mechanism for citizens to access services, offer feedback, and participate in surveys that shape their attitudes and behaviors.