DIOXIN

Any of several carcinogenic or teratogenic heterocyclic hydrocarbons that occur as impurities in petroleum-derived herbicides and through over-use or runoff may threaten both surface and groundwater supplies. Dioxin has been linked to cancer, damage to the immune system, and other serious health conditions. It is also produced in paper mills when chlorine is mixed with wood pulp to brighten paper. Dioxin ends up in the mills' wastewater, which is then discharged into rivers.