Fetuses are vulnerable to methylmercury because of their rapid brain development, and some may now be receiving exposures at levels that cause observable adverse neurological effects. Trends in methylmercury exposure, including regional differences, should be analyzed, as should sub-populations whose diets are high in fish and seafood. And we need to better understand how this chemical affects brain development in fetuses and children. Based on an analysis of available data including exposure levels to methylmercury and food consumption surveys, the committee said the majority of Americans are at low risk of adverse health effects. However, the committee estimated that each year about 60,000 children may be born in the U.S. with neurological problems that could lead to poor school performance because of exposure to methylmercury in utero.
Power plants burning fossil fuels are the largest source of manmade mercury emissions.
Meyers said his company believes the state s economy is dependent on the health of Alaska s environment. We want to do things right. Even though the group could use the money to purchase lands and protect them from oil drilling, Phillips Petroleum attached no conditions to its donation. Alaska presents us with an opportunity to do it right the first time. The donation will help pay for a new statewide conservation planning project, Great Places in a Great Land.