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This page last reviewed June 23, 2009

Dioxins Program

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Dioxins in California

Dioxins are highly toxic chemicals that are formed during the combustion (burning) of materials and the manufacture of certain chlorinated chemicals. Dioxins can be emitted from a variety of sources including cars and trucks, waste incineration, chemical manufacturing plants and other industrial sources that burn fuel. Dioxins can also be emitted from other sources such as forest fires and residential wood burning. These toxic chemicals are inhaled directly or can contaminate vegetation and be eaten by animals and humans. Dioxins then accumulate in the body. The Air Resources Board (ARB) has identified dioxins as a toxic air contaminant (TAC) and they are listed as hazardous air pollutants by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA). Many studies, including U.S. EPA's Reassessment of Dioxins, have shown that dioxins can cause cancer and other health problems including birth defects and liver damage.



Air Toxics Program

 
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