Background

The Florida phosphate industry supplies approximately one-fourth of the world's phosphate needs. 90% of the phosphate is used to manufacture fertilizer while the rest is used to produce feed supplements, vitamins, softdrinks and toothpaste. Fertilizer is one of Florida's leading export commodities accounting for $1.3 billion dollars in 2001(1).

Being a good source of income for rural communities, phosphate mining also has serious ecological effects. Fluoride remains to be the largest ecological liability of the phosphate mining industry. Exposure to fluoride can lead to a condition called fluorosis, which is characterized by swollen joints, falling teeth, pain and even death. Radioactive gypsum is another by-product of the industry. Radioactive gypsum produces airborne radon which has been linked to causing cancer. Sulfur dioxide is another hazardous gas associated with phosphate mining(2). Exposures can lead to respiratory problems and cardiovascular disease.

Since phosphate mining is one of Florida's largest industries, it is important to study its ecological effects and take the necessary measures to regulate and make its operations safe for the environment and the public.

About the group and the project

In October 26, team shaker baghouse did a tour of the PCS Phosphate Mining Facility in White Springs, FL. The group comprises of 4 environmental engineering students from the University of Florida, namely: Alyson Byrne, Victoriano de Jesus, Danielle Hall and Julie Mammino.

This website presents information that we have gathered which relates the phosphate mining industry to air pollution and air pollution controls.