Environmental Experts Call for Protection Against Mercury Toxic Air Pollution

Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) experts are calling on the Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take immediate action to protect public health from the dangers of mercury toxic air pollution. Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can cause significant harm to human health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. The EPA has a critical role to play in regulating mercury emissions from power plants and other industrial sources. Despite the known risks, the Trump administration has been rolling back key regulations aimed at reducing mercury pollution. EDF experts argue that this is a reckless and short-sighted approach that will have devastating consequences for public health. Mercury pollution can cause a range of health problems, including brain damage, developmental delays, and birth defects. The EPA’s own estimates suggest that reducing mercury emissions could prevent up to 4,700 premature deaths and 130,000 cases of childhood asthma each year. Furthermore, mercury pollution can also have significant economic impacts, with estimated annual costs of up to $140 billion. The EDF is urging the EPA to reinstate and strengthen regulations aimed at reducing mercury emissions from power plants and other industrial sources. This includes implementing and enforcing strict emissions standards, as well as providing support for the development and deployment of clean energy technologies. The EDF is also calling on the EPA to take a more comprehensive approach to addressing mercury pollution, including reducing emissions from other sources such as waste incinerators and industrial processes. In addition, the EDF is urging the EPA to provide more support for communities that are disproportionately affected by mercury pollution, including low-income and minority communities. These communities often bear the brunt of environmental pollution and have limited access to resources and healthcare. The EDF is working with other environmental and health organizations to push for stronger action on mercury pollution. The group is also engaging with lawmakers and policymakers to advocate for legislation that supports reducing mercury emissions and protecting public health. Overall, the EDF’s experts are emphasizing the urgent need for action to address mercury pollution and protect public health. The consequences of inaction will be severe and long-lasting, with significant impacts on human health, the environment, and the economy. The EDF is committed to continuing its advocacy efforts and working with other stakeholders to push for a safer and healthier environment for all.

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