THE PROBLEM
Toxic
mercury hurts our health and quality of life. Mercury pollution
from power plants rains down on our rivers and lakes, accumulating
in the food chain. When we eat fish, we ingest the same pollution,
putting ourselves and our children at risk. One in six American
women of childbearing age has enough mercury in her blood
to pose a risk to her unborn child.
Breastfed
infants and developing fetuses are exposed when their mothers
consume tainted fish, which can result in lowered intelligence,
learning problems, and brain damage. Anyone who eats contaminated
fish is at risk, particularly children. In adults, mercury
exposure can cause irreversible damage to the brain and cardiovascular
system, and can reduce fertility.
THE CULPRIT
Coal-fired
power plants are a major source of mercury pollution. These
plants, which also contribute to acid rain and smog, account
for most of Michigan's airborne mercury. To reduce mercury
pollution, these power plants must install modern pollution
control equipment. This can be done for no more than 1.2%
of an average total utility bill, and probably less than this.
THE SOLUTION
We must
act to reduce children's exposure to mercury with the same
resolve as efforts taken to reduce their exposure to lead.
Unfortunately, the EPA unveiled a plan for mercury that does
too little, too late. Absent a responsible federal approach,
Michigan must act to protect our families and our communities.
In April
2006, Governor Granholm announced new mercury reductions,
taking a huge step forward in protecting the health of Michigan's
children. Read our April 17, 2006
press release for more information.
Learn more about mercury pollution
and the health impacts of toxic mercury
