Mercury contamination refers to the presence of mercury in the environment, typically in soil, water, or air, at levels that pose a risk to human health and ecosystems. Mercury is a naturally occurring heavy metal that can exist in various forms, including elemental mercury, inorganic mercury compounds, and organic mercury such as methylmercury. Contamination often occurs due to anthropogenic activities, including industrial processes, mining, coal combustion, and the improper disposal of mercury-containing products.
Exposure to mercury can have severe health effects, particularly affecting the nervous system, kidneys, and cardiovascular system. Methylmercury, which can accumulate in fish and seafood, is particularly concerning for pregnant women, as it can affect fetal development. Environmental mercury contamination can lead to bioaccumulation in the food chain, impacting wildlife and ultimately human populations that consume contaminated fish.
Efforts to address mercury contamination include regulations to control emissions, promote safer alternatives, and remediation of contaminated sites to reduce exposure risks.
European markets are urgently recalling swordfish due to detected mercury levels surpassing safe limits. The European Union has issued a "grave" alert following Italian warnings about mercury contamination in seafood.…