Olin Corporation announced today that it will stop making chlorine products that create mercury at its Augusta plant. Much of the toxic mercury ends up in the Savannah river.

Tonya Bonitatibus with Savannah Riverkeeper has been campaigning against mercury use for six years.

“We believe the best thing for our community was not for them to shut down by to convert and as of today they have announced that that is their intention, which we could not be more excited about. This is a significant step in the right direction and we’re very proud.”

Bonitatubus says it will take about ten years for the mercury to leave the Savannah river. Olin is expected to be completely mercury free in Augusta by 2012.

Tags: Augusta, Savannah River, mercury, olin corporation, Savannah Riverkeeper