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News & Analysis | REG•WATCH Blog | Press Room
Monday, January 15, 2007
New Research Backs Claim of Mercury Hot Spots
A new study by the American Institute for Biological Sciences has found further evidence that the cap-and-trade approach to limiting mercury emissions backed by EPA could create mercury "hot spots," areas with dangerously higher concentrations of mercury. A US and Canadian research team identified five hot spots in New England, New York and Nova Scotia.
EPA has proposed to limit mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants through a "cap-and-trade" method, which would control pollution emissions by setting an emission standard for polluters and then allowing polluters to trade emissions up to a certain cap. While reducing the overall level of mercury emissions, the cap-and-trade method could actually increase mercury emissions in some areas. According to AIBS, "[g]reater deposition of mercury near areas that are highly sensitive to the element or that are already affected by it could raise the risk to people and wildlife that consume fish. There is reason to believe, however, that lowering emissions can reduce risk."
In early December, EPA failed to limit mercury emissions from existing cement kilns, one of the greatest sources of mercury pollution.
High levels of mercury exposure has been linked to neurological and developmental problems and is particularly harmful to pregnant women and children.
Posted by Genevieve Smith
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