Mercury study report to Congress. Volume 1. Executive summary

This volume summarizes findings of the Mercury Study Report to Congress required of U.S. EPA under the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. The Report assesses anthropogenic sources contributing to mercury emissions from electric utility stream generating units, municipal waste combustion units, and other sources, including area sources. The summary volume provides an overview of the Report`s findings on properties and industrial uses of mercury; analysis of atmospheric releases, process, fate and transport of mercury; and analysis of potential exposure pathways of wildlife and humans. This summary volume focuses on potential adverse health effects of methylmercury exposure to humans and wildlife from consumption of fish and shellfish. Management alternatives including the following possible control strategies were reviewed. Costs of various control measures and research needs were presented.