Where to begin? Dibutyl phthalate was used in a study conducted on animals, which showed that prolonged exposure to DBP while pregnant can cause infertility (to the fetus), undescended testicles in males as well as issues concerning sperm development. In adults, DBP has been linked to lower sperm concentration and decreased fertility in men. It is also thought to have properties which disrupt the human endocrinal system, that is to say the human hormone system. As well, according to the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, "Inhalation of high levels of dibutyl phthalate can cause irritation of the respiratory tract and eyes, nausea, vomiting, headache and dizziness. Exposure over long periods of time can result in liver and kidney damage." For these reasons, the European Union has banned the use of DBP in cosmetics.
As well as health concerns for humans, dibutyl phthalate also affects our environment; because it is insoluble in water, it spreads easily in low-oxygen areas (ex: in the dirt, deep lakes). It bioaccumulates in fish, and acts as a disruptor to the endocrinal systems of wildlife as well as humans. This has the potential to warp local ecosystems. In fact, "The European Union classifies DBP as very toxic to aquatic organisms. Under the Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic, DBP is listed as a Chemical for Priority Action." (David Suzuki Foundation).
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