A synthesis of patterns of environmental mercury inputs, exposure and effects in New York State

摘要: Mercury (Hg) pollution is an environmental problem that adversely affects human and ecosystem health at local, regional, global scales—including within New York State. More than two-thirds of the Hg currently released to environment originates, either directly or indirectly, from activities. Since early 1800s, atmospheric concentrations have increased by three- eight-fold over natural levels. In U.S., emissions point-source releases waterways following industrialization into mid-1980s. then, water discharges largely been curtailed. As a result, emissions, concentrations, deposition past few decades declined across eastern U.S. Despite these decreases, persists. To inform policy efforts advance public understanding, State Energy Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) sponsored scientific synthesis information on in This effort includes 23 papers focused deposition, water, fish, wildlife published Ecotoxicology. experiences contamination due deposition. Some landscapes are inherently sensitive inputs driven transport inorganic zones methylation, conversion methylmercury, bioaccumulation biomagnification along food webs. exceed ecological risk thresholds many areas State, particularly Adirondacks, Catskills, parts Long Island. some biota Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands Northeastern Highlands last four decades, concurrent with decreases air regional sources. However, widespread changes not occurred other ecoregions While timing magnitude response levels varies, policies expected further diminish should continue decrease webs, yielding benefits wildlife, people Anticipated improvements status aquatic ecosystems likely be greatest for inland surface waters roughly proportional declines Efforts recovery recent years yielded significant progress, but remains pollutant concern. Indeed, this extensive compilation observations biota, it appears extent intensity landscape waterscape greater previously recognized. Understanding will require study, underscoring need existing monitoring efforts.