Researchers at Newcastle University, UK have found that global warming is indirectly causing damage to highways in Iceland. Metallic studs and chains on tyres of vehicles are intended to increase grip on snow-covered roads. As a result of global warming the snow now thaws for part of the winter, allowing the metal to come into direct contact with the road. This wears away the road surface and results in costly repairs. The dust produced during this process can cause cancer, according to some health experts. Researchers are trying to identify better-suited materials for use in road surfaces ( www.envirolink.netforchange.co , June 19, 2001).
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