Mercury in the Environment

1.

Mercury in the Environment
Understanding the
Impact of Mercury
Pollution

2.

What is Mercury?
• Mercury is a
naturally occurring
element that can be
toxic to humans and
wildlife. It exists in
various forms:
elemental, inorganic,
and organic.

3.

Sources of Mercury in the
Environment
• Mercury is released
from natural sources
such as volcanic
eruptions and from
human activities like
coal burning,
mining, and waste
incineration.

4.

Effects of Mercury on Human Health
• Mercury exposure can
lead to neurological
damage, kidney
problems, and
developmental defects.
Methylmercury in fish is
a major concern for
human health.

5.

Environmental Impact of Mercury

6.

The Global Mercury Cycle
• Mercury released into the
atmosphere can travel long
distances before depositing
into ecosystems, making it a
global issue that requires
international cooperation.

7.

Reducing Mercury Pollution
• Key strategies include
reducing mercury
emissions from
industrial sources,
promoting alternative
energy sources, and
international
agreements like the
Minamata
Convention.

8.

Mercury Contamination Precautions
• Basic actions in case of a
mercury spill: Open vents
and windows to let in fresh
air, eliminate drafts.
Remove people, especially
children, from the premises.
Restrict people's access to
the premises (close doors)
to reduce the spread of
mercury vapor into

9.

Use of mercury in industry
• Mercury is widely used in electrical
engineering, electronics, instrument making,
metallurgy, chemistry (thermometers,
barometers, relays, electric bells, fluorescent
lamps, quartz mercury lamps),It is used in the
production of chlorine and alkalis, for
obtaining high-purity metals, and as a catalyst
in organic chemistry.

10.

Conclusion
• Mercury pollution is a
serious environmental
and health issue.
Global efforts are
essential to reduce its
impact and protect
both human health
and the environment.