Releases of Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins and Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans to Land and Water and with Products

Abstract

This chapter of the Handbook of Environmental Chemistry addresses the release of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF) to water and to land as well as their presence in products and residues. Whilst a great deal of attention has been focused in recent times on the release of PCDD/F to air and detailed inventories of sources have been developed for a number of countries, there has not been a similar systematic approach used to compile releases to water and land or to quantify the amount of PCDD/F present in products and residues. The chapter discusses work that has been done in this area and uses a selection of examples to support the author's contention that releases of PCDD/F to all media, as well as their presence in products and residues, need to be included in a comprehensive assessment of pollution by these chemicals. A comprehensive understanding of the presence of PCDD/F in releases to the environment as well as in products and residues will enhance the development of the most appropriate and effective policies to reduce and control exposure and consequent adverse effects.