Ameren's coal-fired plants are a major source of mercury pollution

A new report released today by Environment Missouri suggests coal-fired power plants in Illinois and Missouri are among the largest sources of mercury pollution in the country.


Mercury can cause serious health problems for both wildlife and people who eat contaminated fish.


State advocate for Environment Missouri, Ted Mathys, says four out of five of the top mercury-emitting plants in Missouri belong to Ameren.


"The Ameren Labadie power plant alone emitted 1,297 pounds, ranking it first among Missouri’s plants, and 15th among all 451 power plants analyzed nationally," Mathys says.


In a written statement, Ameren Missouri said it has been "studying mercury control methods" in anticipation of new federal rules.


Véronique LaCapra, St. Louis Public Radio

Posted in: environment,mercury,ted mathys,Véronique LaCapra