Doctors are crediting the EPA's Mercury and Air Toxic Standards (MATS) with saving hundreds of thousands of children's lives and preventing brain damage in millions of unborn and newly born children. Pro-life Christians' support for the EPA's MATS played a key role in its adoption in 2012, and we will continue to fight for higher clean-air standards.
In the decade since MATS was enacted, mercury levels have dropped by 90% in the areas surrounding power plants, where previously, 1 in 6 newborn children suffered brain damage due to the pollution from these power plants.
But the fight against coal-burning power plants, and the mercury and toxic pollution they create isn't finished. Recent EPA data (2021) shows a concerning 13% increase in mercury emissions from electric power. Coal plants powered by lignite were not covered by the original standard, putting families in Texas and North Dakota specifically at higher risk.
Further, Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAP) like hydrochloric acid, arsenic, chromium, and Particulate Matter (PM) from coal-fired power plants nationwide threaten our children and those living near these harmful power plants. All of these pollutants lead to newborn ailments like allergies, asthma, and autism.
Mercury and other toxins emitted by these power plants pollute the air, water, and soil, entering our food chain. Pregnant and nursing mothers can unknowingly pass mercury or other poisons to their unborn babies or infants through breast milk.
No level of mercury is safe. Let's unite and urge the EPA to "Finish the Job" to protect our children from toxic pollution.
Sign this petition to join the fight! Then share with family and friends to spread the word!