4.7 million tons of mercury found in top 40 inches of soil, climate change may increase levels.

A study in Environmental Science & Technology reveals that soil stores more mercury than previously believed, with 4.7 million tons found in the first 40 inches. Climate change, by promoting vegetation growth, could increase soil mercury levels, potentially outweighing the reduction efforts of control schemes like the Minamata Convention on Mercury. Researchers suggest stricter, long-term, simultaneous control of mercury and carbon dioxide emissions.

August 14, 2024
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