(1) Mercury is a persistent and toxic pollutant that bioaccumulates in the environment;

(2) Consumption of mercury-contaminated fish poses a significant health threat;

(3) Combustion of municipal and other solid waste is a source of mercury pollution;

(4) Both industry and government are working to reduce the content of mercury in products and to control the release of mercury into the environment;

(5) Accidental mercury spills, breakages, and releases have occurred at schools in the United States, exposing students, teachers, and administrators to mercury emissions; and

(6) Removal of mercury and mercury-containing products from the waste stream prior to combustion or disposal is an effective way to reduce mercury pollution.