Mercury emissions from coal-fired power stations

8.9.2014

Question for written answer E-006663-14
to the Commission
Rule 130
Reinhard Bütikofer (Verts/ALE)

Exposure to mercury, and in particular the ingestion of methylmercury (MeHG), can be seriously damaging to health. Most mercury present in the environment is emitted by power stations that use lignite or hard coal. The USA responded to this problem by drastically lowering its emissions limit in 2012.

What limit values apply to mercury emissions in the individual Member States?

Does the Commission intend to introduce EU-wide limit values for mercury emissions?

What bearing are the different limit values having on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) negotiations?