Addressing the Mercury Problem: Global Challenge, Local Impact?
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
An RFF Forum
Alongside carbon dioxide, NOX, and SO2, mercury is the fourth key target pollutant of coal-burning electrical power plants that might be subject to regulation pending the outcome of current congressional debate. The Environmental Protection Agency will finalize mercury standards for the electricity sector in March 2005.
This heavy metal, in its various chemical forms, cycles through global air and water ecosystems and adversely effects humans, primarily through the consumption of fish. Released from the combustion of coal as well as medical and municipal waste, these mercury compounds can become highly toxic once deposited into waterways. Mercury deposition from the air is uneven and is often concentrated in localized “hot spots.”
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Introduction: Paul Portney | 
President and Senior Fellow
Resources for the Future
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Moderator: Dallas Burtraw |
Senior Fellow
Resources for the Future
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Panelist I: Michael Miller | 
Vice President, Environment
Electric Power Research Institute
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Panelist II: Michael Murray |
Staff Scientist
National Wildlife Federation
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Panelist III: Paulette Middleton |
President
Panorama Pathways
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| Panel Discussion | |
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Question & Answer Session |
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