Electronic Toxins in Automobiles
Automobiles contain a
variety of toxic substances that can enter your body through your skin
and by breathing. Inside of your car, heavy metals and other toxins,
including mercury, cesium, cadmium and barium are contained within the
electronic components of the vehicle. These toxins are primarily within
the microchips and liquid crystal display (LCD) screens found on your
dashboard and on accessories such as portable geographic positioning
system (GPS) units.
The plastics in your vehicle, which make up
your dashboard, console, storage compartments, covering of your steering
wheel, and components of your vehicle's carpeting, floor mats and
safety belts may contain bisphenol A (BPA), which is an endocrine
disruptor that can cause hormonal problems when it enters your
bloodstream. The heat of the sun can leach this chemical out of the
plastics, as can scratches and dings caused by everyday use.