An overview of mercury contamination: Environmental dynamics and mitigation strategies

A common environmental pollutant, mercury (Hg) has serious effects on ecosystems and human health. This review examines the intricate biogeochemical mechanisms that control mercury, its effects on human health and ecological systems, and new remediation techniques. Mercury's elemental (Hg⁰), inorganic (Hg (II)), and organic methylmercury (MeHg) forms interact intricately throughout its environmental cycle. Its mobility and toxicity are significantly influenced by variables like temperature, atmospheric deposition, microbial methylation and demethylation, and the presence of organic matter. Mercury's bioaccumulation and biomagnification in terrestrial and aquatic environments food chains and biodiversity, endangering both people and wildlife. Human exposure to mercury causes serious health problems, such as neurotoxicity, immune system impairments, and developmental difficulties. This exposure occurs mostly from occupational exposure and the ingestion of seafood contaminated with mercury. Those who are more susceptible to mercury contamination include pregnant women and youngsters. Innovative technologies like phytoremediation, bioremediation, and mercury capture techniques have been included into remediation techniques to address this pressing problem. Globally, agreements such as the Minamata Convention play a crucial role in combating mercury pollution. There are critical data includes the scale of release from permafrost thaw of Hg already present in sediments remains uncertain by a factor of 10 and there is no reliable method exists for predicting MeHg hotspots based on DOM character or hgcAB genes. The necessity of an integrated approach to mercury management is emphasized in this study, which promotes cooperation between stakeholders, scientists, and legislators in order to safeguard human health and the environment.