Because many toxic compounds are still being released into or moving around in the environment, however, contamination by some chemicals may also be on the rise. The more states look, the more they find. Approximately 64 percent of the advisories issued in 1996 were for mercury, which causes damage to the nervous system and affects the development of fetuses and infants. Coal-burning and waste incineration plants are significant sources of mercury pollution. PCBs, though banned from use in new products in 1977, are in many products still in use, in disposal sites and in contaminated river, lake and ocean sediments.
Fish is the most significant source of mercury and PCBs that people absorb into their bodies.
Paying attention to advisories. Contacting state and federal lawmakers and insisting on strong programs to reduce or eliminate pollution at its source.