Identification and quantification of mercury releases in China

抄録

Mercury is a heavy metal of special concern because it has many serious impacts on human health and the environment. It can be found in many minerals and often extracted as a by-product together with other metals such as gold, zinc, and copper. This element has many uses, and is a component of various products. In addition, the combustion of natural resources and solid wastes can result in significant mercury emissions into air if it is processed without adequate controls. China is the largest emitter of anthropogenic mercury in the world, with more than 600 tons of annual mercury emissions, which contribute about 28% of total global anthropogenic emissions. Therefore, for the appropriate management of mercury in China, it is necessary to clarify the release sources, as well as the amount released. Thus, in this study, we provide a quantitative information regarding mercury releases as a basis for implementing strategic mercury management policies in China. We identified the sources of mercury releases and estimated the mercury distribution into various media in China. The total amount of 6,751 tons is estimated to release into different media and that release into air is the largest fate in 2016.