As the new home of WISPIRG's environmental work, Wisconsin Environment can be contacted with any questions regarding this news release.
The
Natural Resources Board today authorized for public comment a range of
options for proposed changes to the state’s mercury rule.
“With
cost-effective technology for 90 percent reductions already available,
there’s no reason our lakes and streams should wait for power plants to
get their act together,” said Matt Wallace, WISPIRG Environmental
Associate. " Illinois is on track to reduce statewide mercury emissions
90% by 2009, and at each individual plant by 2012. Our public health
and beautiful waters are too important to let Wisconsin lag behind our
neighbors."
WISPIRG, along with other environmental and sports groups, has
submitted a citizens petition to the DNR requesting that the state
implement rules to achieve a 90% reduction in mercury emissions by
2012. Already, Wisconsinites have overwhelmingly expressed support for
such a rule.
Mercury is a serious public health threat in Wisconsin, and is
especially dangerous for children and developing fetuses. Mercury
exposure can damage the central nervous system, causing attention and
language deficits, impaired memory, and impaired visual and motor
function.
In Wisconsin, most mercury pollution comes from coal-fired power
plants. Once in our environment, it often falls into our rivers and
lakes where natural bacteria convert it to its most toxic form. This
mercury becomes more concentrated as it moves up the food chain, until
humans consume it through sport and commercially caught fish. The
pollution is so widespread that the DNR has issued fish consumption
advisories for every body of water in the state.
The
public comment period will likely entertain comment on a range of
policy options, with public hearings around the state expected to occur
no later than June.
"We
need to solve this problem, and there's no reason to delay," said
Wallace. "We know the source of the threat, and we have the technology
now to stop it. When Wisconsin's kids catch their first fish from our
beautiful lakes, their parents shouldn't have to think twice about
serving it for dinner."
