EPA Increases Dioxin Info
The United States Environmental Protection Agency has decided to increase reporting of dioxin compounds. Because of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 said that all facilities must report the amount of dioxin and dioxin-like compounds that are released or transferred from a facility. The EPA is now broadening the report to require that facilities give a report on each compound individually. The more detailed reports should allow communities to better determine the level of risk posed from dioxins and dioxin-like compounds released in an area.
Dioxins are a byproduct of combustion and industrial chemical processes. They are extremely toxic and mobile. They usually are airborne and can contaminated air, soil, sediments, and food and can lead to cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental delays. There are no known "safe" levels of dioxins.
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