Abstract
This paper reviews information from the existing literature and the EU GMOS (Global Mercury Observation System) project to assess the current scientific knowledge on global mercury releases into the atmosphere, on global atmospheric transport and deposition, and on the linkage between environmental contamination and potential impacts on human health. The review concludes that assessment of global sources and pathways of mercury in the context of human health is important for being able to monitor the effects from implementation of the Minamata Convention targets, although new research is needed on the improvement of emission inventory data, the chemical and physical behaviour of mercury in the atmosphere, the improvement of monitoring network data, predictions of future emissions and speciation, and on the subsequent effects on the environment, human health, as well as the economic costs and benefits of reducing these aspects.
Highlights
Mercury (Hg) is a persistent and toxic element that, through anthropogenic activities or natural processes, can be mobilized from natural deposits into the biosphere
Global mercury emissions from anthropogenic sources have been inventoried in many studies over the years [17,35,36,37,38], which have become more advanced with time by involving a larger number of sources and more robust inventory methodology
In 2035 (1020 tonnes·year global mercury emissions by almost year against 1960 tonnes·year−1) under the assumptions employed in the scenario, taking into account that policy commitments and plans announced by countries worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in addition to phasing out fossil energy subsidies, would be fully implemented
Summary
Mercury (Hg) is a persistent and toxic element that, through anthropogenic activities or natural processes, can be mobilized from natural deposits into the biosphere. Is a significant source of mercury exposure to humans in many developing regions [11] It is, important to obtain knowledge on how mercury contamination on a global scale can be limited, and to identify suitable strategies for the prevention of adverse health outcomes related to mercury emissions. The major conclusion drawn from the aforementioned studies is that international action is required as soon as possible to reduce mercury emissions and human exposure on local, regional, and global scales. Observation System) project (http://gmos.eu/) to assess the current scientific knowledge on global mercury releases into the atmosphere, global atmospheric transport and deposition, and the linkage between environmental contamination and potential impacts to human health. The paper discusses uncertainties and research needs associated with the modeling of current and future global sources and pathways of mercury in the context of human health
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