Environmental Chemicals & Pollutants

Many chemicals and pollutants are naturally present in the environment, while other chemicals are created by humans for use in consumer, or everyday, products. Some chemicals may cause harmful health effects. There is continuous research being done to learn more about the health effects from harmful chemicals and how to reduce your exposure to them. Vermont has passed laws intended to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and to inform the public about chemicals in consumer products.

The Health Department is a great resource for information about chemicals and health. Toxicology staff research the effects of chemical exposure and stay current on exposure and risk assessment. Here you will find information on natural and human-made chemicals and pollutants found in the air, water, soil and consumer products.

General Screening Values

The Health Department develops general screening values which can be used to evaluate potential exposure to some chemicals in:

• Soil 
• Indoor Air 
• Drinking Water