1,1-Dichloroethylene is a synthetic chemical used in plastic production. It can contaminate water through industrial discharges and may harm the liver and kidneys.

1,1-Dichloroethylene is primarily used in the production of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) for food packaging and coatings. It can enter water supplies through industrial discharges or leaching from contaminated soil. Water utilities typically measure its presence using gas chromatography. The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level of 7 parts per billion in drinking water. While long-term exposure may affect liver and kidney function, more research is needed to fully understand its health impacts at low concentrations.