Ecotoxicology - Common Environmental Toxins

Common Environmental Toxins

1. PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) - found in coolant and insulating fluids, pesticide extenders, adhesives, and hydraulic fluids.

2. Pesticides-used widely for preventing, destroying, or repelling any organism which may be considered harmful. Commonly found in commercially grown fruits, vegetables, and meats.Methyl parathion is a commonly used pesticide used for agricultural reasons. Methyl parathion causes the formation of toxic mediums for humans, soil and water, fresh water fish, and other hydrophilous organisms in the ecosystem. Methyl parathion proposes numerous health risk factors that are life threatening

3. Mold and other Fungal Toxins

4. Phthalates are found in plastic wrap, plastic bottles, and plastic food storage containers.

5. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) - such as formaldehyde; can be found in drinking water and sewage systems.

6. Dioxins is a chemical compound which is formed as a result of combustion processes such as waste incineration and from burning fuels like wood, coal, and oil.

7. Asbestos is found in the insulation of flows, ceilings, water pipes, and heating ducts.

8. Heavy metals include arsenic, mercury, lead, aluminum, and cadmium which are found in fish, vaccines, and pesticides.

9. Chloroform, which is used to make other chemicals.

10. Chlorine is commonly found in household cleaners.