1,2-Dichloropropane is an industrial solvent and former pesticide that can contaminate water through factory discharge or agricultural runoff. It's a potential carcinogen.

1,2-Dichloropropane, once widely used as a soil fumigant in agriculture, is now primarily an industrial solvent. It can enter water supplies through improper disposal or leaks from manufacturing sites. This chemical persists in the environment, making it a long-term concern. Water utilities typically detect it using gas chromatography. While its agricultural use has been phased out in many countries due to health concerns, its industrial applications continue to pose risks of water contamination.