Some recommendations on mercury measurements and research activities in the European Union

A short description of the main mechanisms controlling the mercury cycle in the European environment have been discussed giving special emphasis to the marine ecosystems and its effects on human health; meanwhile, existing gaps in our understanding of the quantitative and qualitative relationship between emissions to the atmosphere, deposition to sensitive ecosystems and accumulation in the food-chain have been highlighted. The paper concludes presenting the recommendations forwarded to the European Commission by the European Working Group on Mercury which are aimed to support the development of a new European policy for the reduction of the risk for human health and the environment associated to mercury exposure.