Study Reveals High Levels of Toxic Plasticizers in Southern California Air

Researchers find alarming concentrations of harmful airborne chemicals, urging reduced plastic use to mitigate exposure.

Southern Californians are chronically exposed to high levels of toxic airborne chemicals known as plasticizers.
The study detected significant amounts of DiNP, DEHP, and DEHT, with some chemicals listed under California's Proposition 65 for cancer and reproductive harm.
Researchers used silicone wristbands worn by undergraduate students to monitor chemical exposure over five-day periods in 2019 and 2020.
Despite the phase-out of some plasticizers due to health concerns, their replacements have not significantly reduced public exposure.
The findings highlight the need for alternatives to plastic to decrease airborne plasticizer concentrations and protect public health.