Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency proposed that utilities clean up their act and reduce the amount of mercury and other air pollutants that their coal-fired power plants are putting into our air and water. The proposed standards will keep 91% of mercury in coal from being emitted into our air, and thus out of our waterways.
Coal-fired power plants are the single largest source of mercury pollution and are responsible for 99 percent of all mercury emissions from the power sector in the United States. Mercury emitted by coal-fired power plants has contaminated lakes and rivers all across the nation.
Mercury poses the biggest threat to women and children, since as a neuro-toxin it can negatively impact children’s developing mental capacity.
Under the Clean Air Act, the EPA is required to protect our air and water from pollution under Maximum Achievable Control Technology standards for power plants. Reducing mercury pollution is a crucial step towards improving the health of our air, waterways, and communities.
You can voice your support for the mercury-free fish, water and children by emailing the EPA using the web form below.
DEADLINE FOR COMMENTS IS THIS THURSDAY, AUGUST 4 – voice your support today!