m-Xylene is used as an intermediate in synthesis, as a solvent and is found in fossil fuels. It is obtained from the refinement of petroleum. m-Xylene enters the atmosphere during the combustion of gasoline. When gasoline or other petroleum fuels spill into soil, m-xylene and related compounds are moderately mobile and may leach into groundwater. It has been found to persist for several years in groundwater if introduced initially at a high concentration. However, m-xylene is biodegradable in soil and groundwater. The related p-Xylene and o-Xylene pathways are also included in the EAWAG-BBD.