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Mar 14, 2025

Plastic water pipes leach dangerous chemicals when damaged in wildfires - EHN

A new study published in Journal of Hazardous Materials demonstrates how plastic drinking water pipes break down when subjected to high temperatures. In short: Key quote: “Various VOCs, such as

A new study published in Journal of Hazardous Materials demonstrates how plastic drinking water pipes break down when subjected to high temperatures.

In short:

Key quote:

“Various VOCs, such as benzene… and vinyl chloride, have been detected in drinking water systems exceeding their health-based state and federal maximum contaminant levels.”

Why this matters:

Wildfires have become increasingly intense and frequent as climate change continues to impact global weather patterns. As infrastructure, homes and buildings are burned, fires in urban areas release harmful toxins that linger in the environment. Plastic pipes are increasingly used in water infrastructure due to their low cost, but their ability to leach hazardous chemicals raises serious concerns about the potential trade offs for public health.

Related EHN coverage:

More resources:

Isaacson, Kristofer et al. for Journal of Hazardous Materials vol. 489. June 5, 2025