cover of the background paper "Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons - Harmful to the Environment! Toxic! Inevitable?" with a photo of plastic flip-flops
Chemicals

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Harmful to the Environment! Toxic! Inevitable?

updated version 2016

Whether in mouse pads, toys, or bathing shoes – polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous. We encounter PAHs as atmospheric pollutants produced by small combustion units (such as fireplaces and stoves in homes), traffic, industrial processes, and tobacco smoke. They can also be detected in foodstuffs, especially at summertime BBQ events or in smoked products. What are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and what risk do they represent? Why do we find PAHs time and again in objects of everyday use, and why do we encounter them on a daily basis? What is done to address the problem, and what can each individual do? The German Environment Agency (UBA) would like to answer these and other questions in this publication.

Series
background paper
Number of pages
26
Year of publication
Author(s)
Umweltbundesamt (Hrsg.)
Language
English
Other languages
Publisher
Umweltbundesamt
File size
1081 KB
Price
0,00 €
Print version
not available
rated as helpful
402