Why is mercury a problem in end-of-life vehicles?
Mercury auto switches were used to control convenience lighting and anti-lock brake systems (ABS) in many vehicles manufactured prior to model year 2003. The National Vehicle Mercury Switch Recovery Program (NVMSRP) estimates that 67 million of these switches are available for recovery nationwide. Mercury is a toxin that affects the nervous system and the brain. It is particularly damaging to a developing fetus and young child. If switches are not removed prior to crushing or shredding a vehicle or before the steel melting process, the mercury may be emitted into the air where it eventually enters rivers and lakes and contaminates fish and wildlife. Eating mercury-contaminated fish is the primary route of exposure for most people and has resulted in the issuance of health warnings about fish consumption for New York State residents.
