Wis. officials defend mercury emission rules
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin pollution officials are defending a plan to force utilities to dramatically reduce their mercury emissions.
Mercury is a byproduct of burning coal at power plants. It can cause neurological damage.
The Department of Natural Resources adopted rules this summer requiring utilities to cut mercury emissions by 90 percent by 2015. Utilities can extend that deadline to 2021 if they achieve significant reductions in sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and mercury.
Businesses complain the rule will drive up electric bills as utilities buy the technology to comply. The state Assembly of Natural Resources is considering whether to object to the rule.
DNR Secretary Matt Frank told the committee Wednesday morning the rule will result in health care savings statewide and the implementation cost will only grow as prices for materials rise.
Aug 20, 2008 at 8 p.m.
Suggest removal
Even though fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, using them contributes less mercury to the environment than using regular incandescent bulbs. That's because they use less electricity — and coal-fired power plants are the biggest source of mercury emissions in the air.
I think to reduce this powerful neurotoxin in the environment is worth $5-12 dollars per year it will cost consumers. Come on, worst case it is $1 per month and maybe our kids will have a higher I.Q. in a generation from not eating the contaminated fish!
Aug 20, 2008 at 4:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
I find it odd that the environmentalists are so concerned about mercury and global warming. But, they are pushing to use those squiggly light bulbs which contain mercury. Which when disposed of are going to end up breaking and going to the landfill and seeping into the groundwater.
Aug 20, 2008 at 12:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
What enviros don't want you to know about new mercury rule
read full article here:
http://www.lakelandtimes.com/main.asp?Se...
Aug 20, 2008 at 12:06 p.m.
Suggest removal
Higher utility bills + more regulations against companies = higher costs of goods and less jobs. No wonder companies don't want to move to Wisconsin. That and of course the environmentalists keep blocking other methods in producing electricity.
Before you post a comment, consider this:
Note: GazetteXtra.com does not condone or review every comment. Read more in our User Policy AgreementPost Comment
Commenting requires registration.