The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #71785

Felice Stadler, Clean the Rain Campaign, National Wildlife Federation, 1400 16th St. NW, Suite 501, Washington, DC 20036, 202-797-6692, stadler@nwf.org

Environmental leaders in Michigan are proposing precautionary action to reduce human exposure to toxic mercury by setting goals for phase out mercury emissions. Although reducing exposure to toxic substances in our environment is important, it is not enough. New toxic substances, like mercury, continue to be discharged into the environment. Mercury is a potent developmental neurotoxin, which is ubiquitous in the environment and bioconcentrates in the food chain, exposing fetuses, infants and children. This presentation will describe: sources and prevalence of mercury in the environment; how people are exposed; health risks; the role of renewable energy in cleaning up the mercury problem; and less polluting alternatives. This session will also cover proposed public policy changes, challenges in implementing them and effective strategies for achieving pollution prevention goals.

Learning Objectives:

• · Describe the public health implications of health risks from mercury and the philosophy of precautionary action to protect public health.
• · Identify industrial and energy sources of mercury pollution, how people are exposed and who is most at risk for adverse health impacts.
• · Evaluate National Wildlife Federation’s proposed plan to phase-out new mercury emissions in Michigan and why it’s important for states to take the lead.
• · Recognize the core public policy changes, which need to occur in order to achieve mercury reduction goals.

Keywords: Environmental Health Hazards, Toxicants

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.