Greetings from the Director General

In consideration of the fact that Minamata disease marked the outset of industrial pollution in Japan, coupled with its complex historical backdrop and social significance, the National Institute for Minamata Disease (NIMD) was founded in October 1978 as a center for the advancement of research on Minamata disease. After it became a WHO-designated collaborative research center in 1986, it worked actively in advancing mercury research in cooperation with UNEP. Then in July 1996, it was reorganized to its present form to enhance its research functions by harnessing its feature as the place of origin of Minamata disease and has since been working on various activities, including performing comprehensive and international surveys and research and collecting and disseminating information related to Minamata disease, and offering training opportunities in that area.
Next year marks the 70th anniversary of the official recognition of Minamata disease. In response to changes in the social and international situation surrounding Minamata disease and mercury issues, we will strive to further enhance our research and operations in order to fulfill our role.
We are currently conducting research and operations in accordance with our 2025 Medium-Term Plan, and while striving to make steady progress in our research, we will also work with international organizations to promote international contributions, and as an organization based in Minamata City, we will actively contribute to the local community.
In addition, we are working energetically to promote the dissemination of accurate knowledge about Minamata disease both domestically and internationally, primarily through the Minamata Disease Archives, which has recently renovated its exhibitions.
We are committed to stepping up efforts so as to fulfil the role of the National Institute for Minamata Disease as a center of international mercury research, to carry out our duties stemming from our location being the place of origin of Minamata disease and to make further contributions to environmental administration.