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Issue 26 - June 2017

New Convention Calls Time on Mercury Poisoning

  • 50th ratification triggers entry into force of Minamata Convention in 90 days
  • Mercury listed by the UN as one of the top 10 chemicals endangering human health and the environment
  • Artisanal and small-scale gold mining alone exposes up to 15 million miners in 70 countries to mercury fumes, including 5 million women and children

The world took a historic step forward in the fight against mercury poisoning today, as the European Union and seven of its member states (Bulgaria, Denmark, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Romania and Sweden) ratified the Minamata Convention on Mercury, one of the world’s top ten chemical threats to health.

The Convention, which has been signed by 128 countries, will now come into force in 90 days, on 16 August 2017. It is the first new global Convention related to the environment and health in close to a decade, and commits governments to specific measures to control man-made mercury pollution. These cover the entire “lifecycle” of man-made mercury pollution and include banning new mercury mines, phasing-out existing ones, regulating artisanal and small-scale gold mining, and reducing emissions and mercury use. Since the element is indestructible, the Convention also stipulates conditions for interim storage and disposal of mercury waste.

“The Minamata Convention demonstrates a global commitment to protecting human health and the environment.” said UN Secretary General, António Guterres. “Today’s action shows how problems that affect us all can also bring us together for the common good.”

There is no safe level of exposure to mercury, and everyone is at risk because the dangerous heavy metal has spread to the remotest parts of the earth and can be found in everyday products, including cosmetics, lightbulbs, batteries and teeth fillings. Children, newborn and unborn babies are most vulnerable, along with populations who eat contaminated fish, those who use mercury at work, and people who live near of a source of mercury pollution or in colder climates where the dangerous heavy metal tends to accumulate.

“Who wants to live in a world where putting on makeup, powering our phones and even buying a wedding ring depends on exposing millions of people to the risk of mercury poisoning?” said Erik Solheim, Head of UN Environment. “But with mercury we have solutions that are as obvious as the problem itself. There are alternatives to all of mercury’s current applications, such as newer, safer industrial processes. Big and small countries can all play a role – as can the man and woman in the street, just by changing what they buy and use.”

Up to 8,900 tonnes of mercury are emitted each year. It can be released naturally through the weathering of mercury-containing rocks, forest fires and volcanic eruptions, but significant emissions also come from human processes, particularly coal burning and artisanal and small-scale gold mining. Mining alone exposes up to 15 million workers in 70 different countries to mercury poisoning, including child labourers.

Other man-made sources of mercury pollution include the production of chlorine and some plastics, waste incineration and use of mercury in laboratories, pharmaceuticals, preservatives, paints and jewelry.

“Today is a pivotal moment in the fight against harmful chemicals and their negative impact on health and the environment,” said Naoko Ishii, CEO and Chairperson of the Global Environment Facility.  “Mercury can be transported over distances far removed from its original emission source, contaminating the food we eat, the water we drink and the air that we breathe.”

The Convention takes its name from the most severe mercury poisoning disaster in history, which came to light in Minamata, Japan in May 1956, after sustained dumping of industrial wastewaters into Minamata Bay, beginning in the 1930s. Local villages who ate fish and shellfish from the bay started suffering convulsions, psychosis, loss of consciousness and coma. In all, thousands of people were certified as having directly suffered from mercury poisoning, now known as Minamata disease.

NOTE:

Convention text : www.mercuryconvention.org/Convention/tabid/3426/language/en-US/Default.aspx

Fact sheets on the Minamata Convention and its key control measures: www.mercuryconvention.org/Implementationsupport/Resources/tabid/5137/language/en-US/Default.aspx

2017 study on “Mercury monitoring in women of child bearing age in the Asia and the Pacific region”, which found that 96 percent of women sampled in Pacific Island countries had elevated hair mercury levels, thought to be due to eating fish: www.mercuryconvention.org/Portals/11/documents/News/Mercury%20Monitoring%20Women%20Asia%20Pacific_Press%20release.pdf

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Art & Culture

Gay Bangkok

Gay Bangkok will be an incredible experience for whoever wants it to be. There is literally something for everyone and Bangkok is safe, open, and accepting. Whether you are from San Francisco or Vatican City you can come to Thailand, be yourself, and get immersed in one of the worlds most amazing cultures. There is plenty to do and see other than the inside of gay venues so be so to get out and explore. (this article was last updated on October 9, 2017)

1. Clubbing:

Nightlife in Bangkok is a blast. There are plenty of gay parties but do not be afraid to pick up a free BK Magazine or check them out online to see what’s hot that week at art galleries or other bars before you hit the bars. There are gay bars peppered in neighborhoods throughout the city but considering distance and traffic make it a one stop shop. Head down to Silom Soi 4 or Silom Soi 2 (Silom is the name of the  main avenue, Soi is the word for side street or alley). Soi 4 has your basic Bangkok gay bars with some great drag shows, themed events, and cheap drinks. There is outdoor seating to sit and chill while tourists walk the street. Soi 2 has DJ Station which is the larger dance club in the area and a few smaller bars. For DJ Station, you will pay cover at the entrance of the alley which should get you a drink ticket or two.  Walk to the back of the alley past the other bars and you can enter DJ at the back right for the bottom dance floor or there stairs at the back left that take you to the balcony. It can get VERY crowded on holidays. Downstairs will have some campy drag shows earlier on then its all fun and dancing. 

Tip: Burger King is right outside of Soi 2 so if you don’t find an Australian backpacker to make a bad decision with you can accomplish that with a Whopper and large fries. Sunrise Tacos is outside of Soi 4. 
 
Tip: Do NOT let some Russian kid slip something in your drink so you wake up in a broom closet with all your shit stolen. I’ve never met anyone that this happened to but there’s some truth in most urban legends.
 
Pro Tip: A standard “vodka soda” can mean a death of a hangover despite the fact that the bottle has a brand name you recognize. Especially if you are with friends, buy a new bottle of Absolute and it’ll come with ice an bottled soda. It is cheaper and will save you the headache. If you plan on being in Bangkok a couple days most if not all bars will give you a card with a serial number so you can store your bottle at the venue for up to a month. 

advertisement for visiting gay bangkok2. The Gay Scene In General

Admittedly some of the better gay parties travel to mainstream bars, hotels, or restaurants venues depending on the night so you might need to do some more Facebook research or ask around on Grindr before you head out. Follow G-Spot Entertainment on Facebook for the latest on a couple cool parties and events. 
 
If you don’t want to worry about the research just stick to DJ Station and Soi 4. Some other regular cool parties are Maggie Choo’s on Wednesday and Sundays for the drag show. Also Boys Love Bubbles (free-flow champagne for men) at the W Hotel.
 
Tank tops are OK for gay bars, not OK nicer restaurants. Flip flops are a no-go almost everywhere at night. 
 
Thailand has a large and open trans community which is something to be celebrated. I will admit I have on occasion seen tourists that didn’t act exceptionally “polite” when they were drunk. Don’t be that dick. 
 
If you are trying to look up a bar, restaurant, or any business really, websites are often out of date or not working 
cocktails

3. Substances

Poppers are illegal in Thailand and in most places where you will have a connecting flight. I know people who have gotten stopped and searched. Nothing serious happened but their stuff got taken away, info recorded, and were detained for a combined couple hours. In general, this is not the place to experiment with anything other than a premium cocktail at a bar. Do not end up in jail. 

4. Getting Around Bangkok

Uber works well in Bangkok. The Geo-pin does not though. Enter an address or you will likely loose your driver. If you take a taxi 1. open the door and tell the driver your destination 2. ask if he is using a meter 3. if he says “no” get out of the cab and flag down another that has a meter. Tuk tuks are these crazy carts that can shuttle you around. 1. Tell him where you are going 2. Ask how much it will cost 3. Tell him you will pay him HALF that amount, then work up from that price  4. These are more expensive than a taxi but are an experience and a faster way to get around. Do it at least once. The absolute best way to get around is the BTS (metro/subway) or if you have the energy to look it up, a canal water taxi.

bottles of massage oil

5. Massages

A “gay massage” is a bad massage where they will specifically not concentrate on getting knots our of your shoulders. Go to a legit spa, ask for a male masseuse, get a real massage, and tip well.
 
Tip: A “thai massage” has you in baggy pajamas and they stretch you out (think passive yoga). An “oil massage” has you naked on the table. 

prep pill

6. Protection and PrEP.

The HIV prevalence is the Bangkok gay scene is quite high. One out of every four men.  Do what you want with that information but there are plenty of clinics where you can get PrEP if you need it. It is not supposed to be expensive either. Do not buy condoms on the street because they sit out in the sun. There is a 7-11 basically every 10 meters. Go there.

thai money

7. Money

I have never met someone this happened to but if you see an ATM alone on a random street, do not use it. Only use one in malls, stores, or banks. It can be a fake and your info can get stolen. Many places do not accept cards. Taxis and many cash-only joints will not be able to break huge bills. Plan accordingly.
 
Service charge is included. It is still nice to leave a little something or at least your left over change at the end of a transaction. 

spa sauna

8. Bangkok Gay Saunas

There are a couple saunas. Babylon is the nicer one. It has a pool, bar, occasional parties… and the usual stuff. Honestly though, do not waste your time waiting at a sauna. Enjoy the town. Every person I know who has gone to a sauna [other than for a dance party] has said it was a waste of time. 

9. Street food:

Welcome to the best street food on Earth. Rule of thumb is go to busy stalls so you can be assured of a high turnover and not some meat that has been sitting out all day. The most common cause of stomach issues is from undercooked chicken so just make sure your kebab is good and cooked. If cleanliness is a worry for you eat food served on sticks, leaves, or disposables. In general it is all good. If you have the time, book yourself one of the million food tours. If you wanna taste street food but A. cannot find a good spot or B. do not feel comfortable, most of the malls have food courts selling the exact same stuff. The restaurant food scene here is out of control too do a quick google search to figure out what’s hot.
 
If you are heading to Soi 4 or Soi 2 at night, nearby Convent Street is known for good street food. My favorite mango sticky rice in town is right there. You should also be able to find yummy noodles for drunk munchies after the bar.  

10. Shopping

My favorite market is Chatuchak open only on weekends. It is enormous and you can spend multiple days there. Take the metro to Mo Chit and follow signs. Another fun market is Asiatique. You will find souvenirs, gifts, tank tops, art, and all that all in one stop any night of the week. Go just before sunset and get dinner after you scope out a cool place. You can take a cab or water taxi. 

11. Dress Code

When you are sightseeing, temples usually do not allow tank tops and some will not allow shorts. Flip flops are fine (honestly easier) because you have to be barefoot when you walk in there anyway. Keep this in mind in case you have room for a pashmina in your bag. Worst case there will be sarongs on loan that literally one million people used before you. Or there will be someone selling those one-size-fits-all flowy elephant print hippie pants.
 
Malls, theaters, and public buildings are sometimes freezing so that pashmina is not a terrible idea. Gay bars allow shorts and tanks but not flip flops. Sky bars are more formal so you might need long pants and a buttoned shirt. 

12. Respect

Please be aware that the country will continue to be in mourning through October 2017. You no longer are expected to wear black but please be conscious that many people will be. You will also note portraits of the current and late King just about everywhere. Please be sure to treat those areas, the name of the King, and any discussion about the royal family with utmost respect- but it is actually better to not say anything at all. If you go to the movies, theater, or a performance you will likely have to stand in silence for the royal anthem of the King.
 visiting gay bangkok
Bangkok is totally safe, fun, delicious, and a shoppers paradise. You can be and therefore should be out and proud. Have fun and let us know how your trip was! 
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Issue 26 - June 2017

Issue 26 – June 2017

Cover art by Cristina Mittermeier 

1. Letter from the Editor – June 2017. June is always a big month for me. Summer is out, vacations, beach weekends, and cook-outs are marked on the calendar. Pride occupies at least…

 

2. If you value SEVENSEAS Media as a resource and as the free PR arm for everyone in marine conservation and sustainable tourism, we need your support! Learn more about how to get involved and ensure we remain a valuable resource…

 

3. Capitol Hill Ocean Week 2017. Convened by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation every June, CHOW brings together more than 600 national and global policymakers…

 

4. Travel with Focus Expeditions and SEVENSEAS. Destinations include: MONGOLIA, PANTANAL, GREENLAND, GALAPAGOS, KENYA, MADAGASCAR, BOTSWANA, SVALBARD, INDIA, BORNEO AND INDONESIA

 

5. Ever dream of swimming with humpback whales? Now you can. If you are interested in swimming with or photographing humpback whales Karim guides people in small trips in Tonga every year between August and October.

 

6. Artist Turns Unused Dried Palette Paint into Classy Sculptures. This saves paint waste, land fill pile up, and prevents clogged drain pipes from not washing paint down the drain.

 

7. JUNE FEATURE DESTINATION – Honduras Photo Series by Cristina Mittermeier

 

8. JUNE FEATURE DESTINATION – 14 Reasons to Visit Honduras

 

 

 

9. JUNE FEATURE DESTINATION – About and around Honduras

 

10. ART, SCIENCE AND A JOURNEY TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH. Interview with Cristina Mittermeier. 

 

11. About Sea Legacy. SeaLegacy creates powerful media to change the narrative around our world’s oceans.

 

12. Surasak Nuibut: Mountain Climber, Adventurer & Travel Photographer. This month we visit the outcast Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven, United Kingdom.

 

13. Under the Waves with Karim Iliya: June 2017. Icebergs crowd together off the coast of Eastern Greenland.

 

14. World Oceans Day – June 8, 2017.  Help expand the reach and impact of World Oceans Day on June 8 and year-round.

 

15. IUCN expedition to explore life on undersea mountains. The three-week-long expedition aboard the French Polar Institute’s research vessel Marion Dufresne will explore the fauna…

 

16. Polynesian Voyaging Society – Hōkūle’a Returns Home. The day breaks over Hōkūleʻa with Kualoa behind her. It has been said that the early settlers of Polynesia arrived from the west…

 

17. #StandUpForSargasso. The Sargasso Sea is known as the ‘Golden Floating Rainforest of the Ocean’. It is located within the North Atlantic sub-tropical gyre…

 

18. International Migratory Bird Day: Save a chain of protected areas along the flyways of migratory birds! Human activity can have a negative impact on birds’ migration, while humankind relies on birds as they deliver environmental services that are invaluable

 

19. An unforgettable “SWIM.” Travel the world, help sea turtles with Loggerhead Marinelife Center. Imagine roaming some of the world’s most beautiful ecosystems. Gorgeous vistas, affordable travel and amazing memories; immersing yourself in the sounds of nature.

 

20. Too Rare To Wear Survey Finds Turtleshell In More Than 30% of Shops, Suggests Tourists Can Help Save Endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtles by Purchasing Souvenirs Wisely

 

21. Connect with the Global Marine Community. In a nutshell, the Global Marine Community is a free interactive resource that gives you access to a weekly email detailing a round-up of events and opportunities in ocean conservation.

 

22. Robyn Hartzell Ocean and Travel Photographer. Bai Tu Long Bay, Vietnam.

 

23. Habits for a Healthy Body and a Healthy Planet: Fiber. Dietary Fiber is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes; however, fiber is not found in fruit or vegetable juices nor is it found in meat…

 

23. Pearl, the one and only gem created by a living organism. Natural or cultured, are formed when a mollusk produces layers of nacre around some type of irritant implanted in the shell.

 

24. Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Surfrider Foundation seek ocean-friendly restaurants. In response to the increase of plastic pollution in coastal zones and ocean gyres, Surfrider Foundation’s Palm Beach County…

 

25. Pangaea Ocean Sailing Expedition. Panex is opening up sailing expeditions for guest crew. This is an unique opportunity to go sailing, cross an ocean, and be a part of something bigger.

 

26. SeaKeepers Bermuda 2017. Throughout its existence, SeaKeepers has made it a practice to honor and promote those key decision makers and influencers who have made extraordinary commitments…

 

27. Interested in advertising, contributing an article, or becoming a donor?.  26 Issues, readership in 174 countries, over 14,000 subscribers, 15,000 monthly visitors…and growing.

 

28. SEVENSEAS junior – June 2017. The Sad Never Before, The Happy Ever After.

 

 

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Issue 26 - June 2017

World Oceans Day – June 8, 2017

World Oceans Day is a global day of ocean celebration and collaboration for a better future. Visit their website which acts as the central coordinating platform for World Oceans Day, with free resources and ideas for everyone – no matter where you live – to help expand the reach and impact of World Oceans Day on June 8 and year-round.

Overall theme for World Oceans Day 2017:

 Our Oceans, Our Future

Conservation action focus: 

Encouraging solutions to plastic pollution and preventing marine litter for a healthier ocean and a better future

www.worldoceansday.org

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