This book presents an exhaustive overview of the biogeo-chemical cycling of mercury in hydroelectric reservoirs as well as in natural aquatic systems of the boreal forest regior of northern Quebec (Canada). Presented in the form of 14 papers with an overall synthesis, it marks the conclusif of over 10 years of studies carried out by universities, mental institutions and industries, using the latest and mos|| appropriate sampling and analytical procedures.The results!) clearly show a threefold increase in atmospheric fluxes of He in remote areas of northern Quebec over the last century and, in the case of hydroelectric reservoirs, the critical role: || played by the extensive flooding of land in the temporary post-impoundment increase in mercury levels in organisms and fish-eating wildlife.

This book presents an up-to-date overview of the characterization, risk assessment and remediation of mercury-contaminated sites. Many industrial activities, including the mining of gold, silver, and mercury itself, have caused mercury contamination of terrestrial and aquatic systems. Unlike other metals, which are generally not very volatile, mercury from contaminated sites can have a significant impact on remote ecosystems via the atmospheric pathway. Thus, mercury contamination is not only a local issue, but also has global dimensions. This book summarizes, for the first time, work from Europe, Russia and the American continent. Review chapters are supplemented by detailed, international case studies.