New Insights on Mercury Exposure from Artisanal Gold Mining

 This process releases toxic mercury vapor into the air. This mercury vapor is not only directly inhaled by miners and others nearby, but it can also travel for miles before being deposited on plants, soil, and water. Converted into methylmercury by bacteria, it then enters the food chain, especially through aquatic environments. 

read more... https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/programs/geh/geh_newsletter/2018/6/spotlight/new_insights_on_mercury_exposure_from_artisanal_gold_mining