Damien Operates a Power Plant That Emits Mercury

question 16

Essay

Damien operates a power plant that emits mercury. He has older pollution control equipment and constantly struggles with his discharges. Sylvia also operates a power plant. She tells Damien that she is investigating the purchase of modern pollution equipment that would result in the mercury discharge of her company being significantly under the amount of allowable mercury discharge. Sylvia tells Damien, however, that the equipment is very expensive. She proposes that she and Damien lobby legislators for marketable discharge permits in the mercury area. What is she referencing and how would it work? Do you think this is a good idea, and why or why not?

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Definitions:

Bacterial Infections

Diseases caused by the invasion and multiplication of bacteria in the body, leading to symptoms such as fever, inflammation, and tissue damage.

Catastrophe

A sudden and widespread disaster or calamity that causes great damage or suffering.

Immune System

The complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens or diseases.

Arthritis

A group of painful and degenerative conditions marked by inflammation in the joints that causes stiffness and pain.