UPSC Prelims 2023 – Question 59

Q 59. Consider the following statements regarding mercury pollution: 

1. Gold mining activity is a source of mercury pollution in the world. 

2. Coal-based thermal power plants cause mercury pollution. 

3. There is no known safe level of exposure to mercury. 

How many of the above statements are correct? 

1. Only one 

2. Only two 

3. All three 

4. None 

Correct Answer: Option (c) 

• One major source of mercury emissions is small-scale gold mining which occurs in many countries. Artisanal gold mining currently contributes more than 35 percent of all global mercury emissions created by people. Hence, statement 1 is correct. 
• Coal-based thermal power plants are a known source of mercury pollution. When coal is burned to generate electricity, trace amounts of mercury present in coal can be released into the atmosphere as emissions. These emissions contribute to mercury pollution. Hence, statement 2 is correct. 
• Acute or chronic mercury exposure can cause adverse effects during any period of development. Mercury is a highly toxic element; there is no known safe level of exposure. Ideally, neither children nor adults should have any mercury in their bodies because it provides no physiological benefit. Hence, statement 3 is correct. 

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