State Steps Up Mercury Elimination Strategy
Michigan's
Department of Environmental Quality released on Jan. 30 a comprehensive
strategy to eliminate the use and release of mercury to the
environment. The department's Mercury Strategy Staff Report
proposes a comprehensive approach to controlling mercury, including
environmental monitoring, inventory development, collaborations and
partnerships, information and outreach, and regulatory controls.
The report provides an overview of the mercury problem and
identifies current sources that contribute to mercury releases and
various methods for reducing and eliminating those sources. It also
outlines state rules, regulations, policies, and monitoring activities
for mercury and chronicles various actions undertaken to prevent the
use and release of mercury.
"This strategy brings Michigan to the forefront as a leader in
mercury elimination," said Director Steven E. Chester. "We look forward
to developing partnerships with groups across Michigan to address this
challenge and make the strategy a success."
The report was developed by a team of department staff from the air,
water, waste, pollution prevention, and remediation programs. It is
available at http://www.michigan.gov/deq.
Comments regarding partnerships and priorities on the strategy will
be received until March 26 and can be submitted by mail, e-mail, or fax
to Sheila Blais, DEQ, Air Quality Division, 525 West Allegan St., 3rd
Floor North, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, MI 48909; blaiss@michigan.gov; (517) 241-7499 (fax).