Emissions from open burning of used agricultural pesticide containers

► PCDD/PCDF are emitted from open combustion of HDPE plastics. ► Residual 2,4-D pesticide increases PCDD/PCDF emissions. ► Higher emissions are due to formation, not vaporization of pesticide contaminants. ► The chemical structure of the pesticide influences the potential for formation. ► Rinsing procedures abate PCDD/PCDF emissions.