What happens once PCBs enter the environment?
More than 99% of PCB wastes produced have been released into the environment. Once released, PCBs may cycle between air, water, and soil at ambient temperatures. These hazardous compounds exist as vapor in the air and may be transported to other areas or accumulate in vegetation and food crops, subsequently spreading contamination to other parts of the world. Small PCB particles exist in water from accidental spill runoff and are carried to other areas through diffusion and currents. Soil contains higher levels of PCB waste than air or water because PCB particles strongly bind with soil and are readily removed from the air and water.
