Mercury Contamination in Florida: Strategies to Reduce Mercury Pollution and Protect Public Health

Publication Date: January 2005

Publisher: Florida Public Interest Group Education Fund

Author(s): Elizabeth Ridlington; Mark Ferrulo

Research Area: Environment

Keywords: water pollution; mercury

Type: Report

Coverage: Florida

Abstract:

Mercury--a heavy metal that can cause severe health damage--pollutes Florida's waterways and fish at levels that threaten the health of Florida's residents. Coal-fired power plants are the largest source of mercury in Florida, and are likely a major cause of mercury pollution in the state's waters. There are two ways the state can reduce mercury emissions--through proper enforcement of the Clean Water Act and by imposing tough air pollution standards on power plants.