Daily Echo - Effects of fluoride on our marine environment

Effects of fluoride on our marine environment
THE Copenhagen Summit on Climate Change attracted much attention with politicians falling over themselves to show off their green credentials.
What has this to do with the local fluoride controversy? Well, quite a lot actually There is a green angle to this debate that has been mostly overlooked by those keen to add this chemical to the region's water supply.
Hexafluorosilicic acid is a by-product of the phosphate fertiliser industry and as such, is not allowed to be disposed of in the sea or river waters. However, when designated for use as a medicinal product, it can be added to drinking water despite not being eligible for a medicinal licence. The SHA did not carry out an assessment of the environmental impact of fluoridation.
Why has there been no independent environmental assessment of the impact of fluoridation on our unique marine environment? Recently concern has been raised about the impact of fluoride on the local oyster population as there is evidence that fluoride accumulates in these shellfish and may impact negatively on the Solent Oyster Fishery. If fluoridation goes ahead, there are many who will simply refuse to drink tap water and opt for bottled water instead.
Whatever way you look at it - water fluoridation WILL have a detrimental effect on the environment. If our government, politicians and policy makers are genuinely concerned for the environment, the wider impact of decisions such as water fluoridation need to be properly evaluated.
Unfortunately, it seems this has not been the case and the long-term consequences for the environment of this policy remain unknown.
ANNA PECKHAM, (address supplied).