Hollywood actor Michael Sheen is investigating allegations that industrial chemicals, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), were dumped across Wales, potentially leading to rare cancers among residents. The investigation, featured in a new BBC iPlayer documentary, centers on the work of researcher and whistleblower Douglas Gowan.
Gowan, a former farming consultant, claimed that the chemical company Monsanto dumped "huge amounts of industrial chemicals all around Wales." He identified PCBs as "some of the worst contaminants known to man," which were widely used in the 20th century for products such as lipsticks and household appliances. Gowan warned that these chemicals accumulate in the environment, wildlife, and humans.
Michael Phillips, who grew up in the 1980s, recalled playing in a lagoon with friends where they were exposed to colored powders released from rusty barrels. He and several friends have since developed rare cancers, which they believe may be linked to this childhood exposure. Phillips stated that Gowan's warnings "made my blood run cold."
Sheen spoke with Gowan months before his death and has since continued his investigation. The documentary highlights at least 14 industrial sites, 12 of which are located in Wales. These locations are marked on maps detailing areas such as Cardiff and Wrexham, including sites in Ynysddu, Treforest, and Newport Docks.
Eastman Chemical Company, which is responsible for Monsanto's legacy production in the UK, did not respond to requests for comment from Sheen's team or the BBC. Gowan died before his concerns were fully addressed.
