"Acrylic fiber production is energy intensive and calls for a heavy consumption of water (Fletcher, 13). Environmental issues surrounding the fiber are unclear, although 'it is thought that a significant number of production chemicals (including the base ingredient acrylonitrile) have a high potential for creating environmental problems if discharged untreated' (Fletcher, 13). Acrylonitrile, the base ingredient in acrylic fiber, may compromise the health and safety of workers without proper safety measures, as 'exposure occurs mostly from breathing it in the air. Acrylonitrile primarily affects the nervous system and lungs' (ATSDR). According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), 'the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that acrylonitrile may reasonably be anticipated to cause cancer in people' (ATSDR)." (Social Alterations: Fibre Analysis by Mary Hanlon Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 2.5 Canada License)