Dentistry/Healthcare
The significant pollutants for these sectors include mercury and vinyl. Mercury is an element used in many medical instruments and in dental fillings. PVC plastic, or vinyl is a material that is also used in a variety of medical products such as IV bags, tubing and plastic containers. PVC has been linked to the formation dioxin, a highly toxic compound. Significant amounts of mercury have been accumulating at POTWs in Maine, consequently getting released into the rivers and streams which has resulted in the posting of fish advisories. Waste solids containing mercury have been improperly disposed of as a biohazard or as solid waste, which are typically incinerated as part of the solid waste stream. Burning mercury allows it into our air and rain where it can potentially contaminate our lakes, rivers and streams. Mercury waste needs to be removed from the public wastewater system, be properly separated from other wastes and transported to a licensed recycling facility
Hospitals and dental facilities are some potential sources of pollution. In keeping with their focus on prevention practices, Maine dentists are doing their part to reduce the amount of mercury that is used or discharged from their practices by implementing the pollution prevention practices and Maine hospitals are also turning toward non-mercury products and alternatives to PVC.
Maine Hospitals for a Healthy Environment
