Ohio EPA
PBT (Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic) Reduction

What are Persistent, Bioaccumulative, Toxic Chemicals (PBTs)

Persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic pollutants (PBTs) are highly toxic, long-lasting substances. They can build up in the food chain to levels that can be harmful to human and ecological health. These contaminants travel long distances in the environment and can move readily from land to air and water. They do not break down easily because of their persistance and bioaccumulative properties. PBTs include man-made and naturally occurring substances. Many of these substances have only been in existance for a relatively short period of human history. A few of these substances - mercury, for example - are naturally occurring. It is the refinement and concentrated human use of these substances that creates the problem.

PBTs are associated with a range of adverse human health effects, including effects on the nervous system, reproductive and developmental problems, cancer, and genetic impacts. The populations at risk, especially to PBTs such as mercury, dioxins and PCBs are children and the developing fetus. US EPA has committed to protecting children and women of child-bearing years from exposure to PBTs, and reducing the concentration of PBTs in our environment.

The following links provide information on PBT chemicals, pollution prevention, and alternatives to PBT containing products.

Ohio EPA Mercury Reduction Information

Ohio EPA PBT Fact Sheets

Electronic Waste Management

Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy

Great Lakes Regional Collaborative Strategy

National Partnership for Environmental Priorities (NPEP)

US EPA PBT information

State of Washington Department of Ecology PBT FAQ

Office of Compliance Assistance and Pollution Prevention
Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
P.O. Box 1049
Columbus, Ohio 43216-1049
Phone (614) 644-3469
Fax (614) 644-2807
Toll Free (800) 329-7518
E-Mail: p2mail@epa.state.oh.us

page last updated: March 16, 2007