"EPA Finalizes Rules Cutting Mercury From Cement"

"U.S. environmental regulators finalized rules on Monday aimed at cutting mercury emissions and other pollution from Portland cement manufacturing, the third-largest source of mercury air emissions in the country.

When fully implemented in 2013, EPA estimates annual mercury emissions from Portland cement manufacturing will be cut 16,600 pounds, or 92 percent, and particulate matter will fall 11,500 tons or 92 percent. ...

The EPA estimates that the rules will yield $6.7 billion to $18 billion in health and environmental benefits. It estimates costs at $926 million to $950 million annually in 2013. Another EPA analysis estimates emission reductions and costs will be lower, with costs projected to be $350 million annually."

Timothy Gardner reports for Reuters August 10, 2010.