Styrene is a synthetic chemical used in plastics manufacturing. It can leach from plastic pipes into drinking water and is a potential carcinogen with nervous system effects.

Styrene is widely used in manufacturing plastics, rubber, and resins. It can enter drinking water through industrial discharges or by leaching from plastic pipes and packaging. The EPA measures styrene levels in parts per billion (ppb) and has set a maximum contaminant level to protect public health. While styrene's health effects are still being studied, concerns include potential nervous system impacts. Activated carbon filtration can effectively remove styrene from water.