Furman Neuroscience Professor: Coal mercury is toxic

Yesterday, Dr. Judy Grisel, associate professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Furman University, joined a growing list of scientists, physicians and other healthcare professionals who have been speaking out about the dangers of mercury from coal plants. Even outside of the state's Mercury Traingle, where Santee Cooper wants to put a new significant source of mercury, professionals are making clear that more mercury is a bad idea.

April 13, 2009

State should reject new coal-fired plant

The state of South Carolina should not support Santee Cooper's plans to build a new coal plant on the Pee Dee River. While there are many dangerous pollutants released by coal plants, mercury is probably the worst. This chemical is highly neurotoxic and especially harmful to children, where brain damage is likely to be irreversible.

Coal-fired power plants are the largest source of toxic mercury pollution in the United States and emit 42 percent of the country's industrial mercury pollution. Cleaner sources of energy should be promoted and developed in South Carolina, in order to keep the state beautiful and the population healthy.

Judy Grisel

Associate Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience Furman University

http://www.greenvilleonline.com/article/20090413/OPINION/904130318/1010