Exposure to toxic components in environmental waste can lead to various health effects. For instance, long-term exposure to heavy metals like lead and mercury can result in neurological damage, while organic pollutants like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dioxins are known to cause cancer and disrupt endocrine function. The route of exposureâwhether through air, water, or soilâcan also influence the severity of the health outcomes.