The state of Maine is about to launch a program to teach parents of children under 8 years of age the dangers of consuming mercury-contaminated fish. EPA New England has challenged the region's hospitals to eliminate mercury waste by the year 2003. Already 13 New England hospitals have joined the program, resulting in the elimination of more than 600 pounds of mercury from their waste streams. Just last week, with the goal of increasing participation in the program, EPA sent letters to every hospital in New England urging them to take the mercury elimination challenge. Maine will also host a biomedical conference this month with the intent of enlisting every hospital in Maine to eliminate mercury emissions.
Air pollution causes lung and other respiratory diseases in children.
Every summer, EPA New England gives reports on air quality to the public through the media and through electronic messages to 1,000 camps, daycare centers and individuals. Nationally, EPA has undertaken an effort to re-write many of the pollutant standards set for our air, water, land and food safety so that they are fully protective of children. With these programs we are making a difference in the lives of New England's children. With the Fred P. Hall, Jr. School as a backdrop, EPA challenged Maine schools to join the agency's Showcase School program to demonstrate the numerous EPA programs available to make schools safer and healthier for children.