The EPA on Monday, April 19, 2010, released its proposal to regulate mercury emissions from gold ore processing and production facilities.

According to the agency, there are about 20 facilities in the United States that extract gold from ore that would be subject to the proposed rule. EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation Gina McCarthy noted that some facilities in Nevada already are making significant progress toward the proposed reductions under that state's program.

According to the agency, the gold industry is the sixth largest source of mercury air emissions in the country.

"Taking mercury out of the air makes our communities safer for everyone," said Gina McCarthy assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Air and Radiation. "Our proposal will further progress that has already been made to limit mercury emissions from this industry."

The agency will take public comment on the proposed rule through May 20, 2010.

Click here for more information.