What are dioxin and dioxin-like compounds?
Dioxin and dioxin-like compounds are trace level unintentional byproducts of some forms of combustion and several industrial chemical processes. They are not commercial chemical products. Dioxins are transported primarily through the air and are deposited on surfaces; they have been detected in air, soil, sediments and food. The principal route by which dioxins are introduced to most rivers, streams and lakes is soil erosion and storm water runoff from urban areas. Industrial discharges can significantly elevate water concentrations near the point of discharge to rivers and streams. Major contributors of dioxin to the environment include: • Incineration of municipal solid waste • Incineration of medical waste • Secondary copper smelting • Forest fires • Land application of sewage sludge • Cement kilns • Coal fired power plants • Residential wood burning • Chlorine bleaching of wood pulp Backyard burning of household waste may also be an important source.
