Why are mercury and mercury wastes of concern?
Mercury is a highly toxic, persistent and bioaccumulative neurotoxin. Mercury is released into the air through the burning of coal at power plants and the burning of mercury-containing wastes. Mercury is also discharged directly into waterbodies by publicly owned treatment works (POTWs are wastewater treatment plants) or remains in the sludge generated by the treatment plant. Typically, this sludge is composted (resulting in land application) or incinerated causing the mercury to vaporize. Once mercury reaches a water body through rain or snow, bacteria convert it to a more toxic form, methylmercury. Methylmercury accumulates in the tissues of plants, insects, fish, and animals. Mercury releases disperse over a wide area and will remain in the environment for years. Health concerns arise when humans consume fish and wildlife and the associated health effects may be severe. The developing fetus and young children are especially at risk when exposed to methylmercury. Delayed development,
