EU proposes banning mercury exports

The European Commission proposed Thursday to ban exports of mercury from 2011 as part of plans to limit pollution from the highly toxic heavy metal.

Under the proposal, remaining stocks of mercury would also have to be stored in special sites considered to be safe, such as underground salt mines.

"This proposal underlines the commission's determination to protect people and the environment from exposure to this highly toxic metal," Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas.

"In banning exports of mercury and requiring its safe storage, the EU will be setting an example for global action to reduce emissions."

The commission said the companies most affected by the proposal had agreed to the ban, which requires approval from the European Parliament and member states.

Mercury use is declining, with worldwide demand of around 3,400 tonnes per year, including 440 tonnes for the European Union's 15 oldest member states.

The heavy metal is used in small-scale gold mining, the chemicals industry and in dental amalgam.