Once in air, 2-methoxyethanol breaks down to other chemicals. Because it is a liquid that does not bind well to soil, EGME that makes its way into the ground can move through the ground and enter groundwater. Effects of 2-methoxyethanol on human health and the environment depend on how much EGME is present and the length and frequency of exposure. Effects also depend on the health of a person or the condition of the environment when exposure occurs. Breathing EGME for short periods of time adversely affects the human nervous system.
Effects range from dizziness to unconsciousness.
EGME also adversely affects the blood, the liver, the kidneys, and the testes. Laboratory studies show that EGME causes similar effects in animals. Direct contact with liquid EGME irritates the skin. Contact with EGME liquid or vapor can cause eye damage. Human health effects associated with breathing or otherwise consuming small amounts of EGME over long periods of time are not known.