Mercury regulation in the United States

Mercury Regulation in the United States

Advice About Eating Fish - EPA & FDA - 2017

Mercury regulation in the United States involves a complex framework of federal and state laws aimed at controlling the release of mercury into the environment and minimizing human exposure to this toxic element. Mercury is a naturally occurring element that can be released into the environment through industrial processes, such as coal burning and waste incineration. Due to its toxic effects on human health and the environment, mercury regulation is a critical component of environmental policy in the United States.

Federal Regulations

The primary federal agency responsible for regulating mercury is the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA enforces several key regulations to control mercury emissions and exposure:

Clean Air Act

The Clean Air Act (CAA) provides the EPA with the authority to regulate air pollutants, including mercury. Under the CAA, the EPA has established the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), which set limits on mercury emissions from coal- and oil-fired power plants. These standards aim to reduce mercury emissions by requiring power plants to install pollution control technologies.

Clean Water Act

The Clean Water Act (CWA) regulates the discharge of pollutants, including mercury, into the nation's waters. The EPA sets water quality criteria for mercury to protect aquatic life and human health. States are required to develop water quality standards that meet or exceed these criteria.

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) governs the disposal of hazardous waste, including mercury-containing waste. The EPA has established regulations for the safe handling, treatment, and disposal of mercury waste to prevent environmental contamination.

Toxic Substances Control Act

The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) gives the EPA the authority to regulate the use of chemicals, including mercury, in industrial processes. The EPA can restrict or ban the use of mercury in certain products to reduce exposure risks.

State Regulations

In addition to federal regulations, individual states have enacted their own laws to control mercury emissions and exposure. These state regulations often complement federal efforts and may include stricter standards or additional requirements.

Mercury Reduction Programs

Many states have implemented mercury reduction programs that focus on reducing mercury use in products, promoting recycling, and educating the public about mercury risks. These programs often target specific sources of mercury, such as dental amalgam, thermostats, and fluorescent lamps.

Fish Consumption Advisories

States issue fish consumption advisories to inform the public about the risks of mercury exposure from eating contaminated fish. These advisories provide guidelines on the types and amounts of fish that are safe to consume, particularly for sensitive populations such as pregnant women and children.

Source of Mercury Emissions

Health Impacts of Mercury Exposure

Mercury exposure can have serious health effects, particularly on the nervous system. Methylmercury, a highly toxic form of mercury, can accumulate in fish and shellfish, posing a risk to humans who consume these foods. Chronic exposure to mercury can lead to neurological and developmental impairments, especially in fetuses and young children.

Related Pages

• Environmental policy of the United States
• Air pollution in the United States
• Water pollution in the United States
• Toxic Substances Control Act