Mercury is a unique element because it remains liquid at room temperature (Environment Canada 2002). Its high surface tension allows it to form spherical beads when released. When bonding with other elements it can form organic and inorganic molecules (Environment Canada 2003). Unde

r natural circumstances mercury is found in large deposits under ground and is released slowly through erosion. Human activities have roughly double or tripled the amount of mercury in the atmosphere since pre-industrial times by burning coal and fossil fuels, metal smelting and cement manufacturing (Environment Canada 2002). Mercury most frequently occurs as cinnabar, which is the chief ore mineral of mercury (Environment Canada 2003).

Mercury emissions from human activity are a major concern in eastern and northern Canada (CCME 2004). Since industrialization mercury emission have risen 1-3% annually, and because of high-energy demands from society they are on the rise again. Even though in Canada mercury toxicity is not yet apparent in humans the danger of impairment due to mercury is genuine, especially to pregnant women who run risk of threatening their unborn child’s health (CCME 2004).

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