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POPs are synthetic chemicals released into the environment with particular characteristics. Some are pesticides, while others are industrial chemicals and by-products of industrial processes or combustion.[1]
By definition, all POPs share the following characteristics:
Source: US EPA, "Persistent Organic Pollutants: A Global Issue, A Global Response" (EPA- 160-F-02-001)
Various scientific studies (laboratory, field, and health) have connected POPs to unfavorable side-effects on human and wildlife health.
POPs are chemicals that are highly stable and do not degrade very easily. Once generated, they can resist degradation for a long time.
POPs can be transported in water, air, as well as through species. Due to their persistence, POPs can accumulate in areas far distances from where they are released.
A Dangerous Combination!!
The majority of POPs were widely used after World War II during the increase in industrial production, when synthetic chemicals became a part of the commercial sphere. These chemicals were useful in pest control, crop production and industry. However, we now know that they have undesirable and frequently unpredictable effects on human health and the environment.
POPs have rapidly become a global concern. The global community has responded by joining forces and signing a revolutionary United Nations treaty in May 2001, known as the Stockholm Convention.
Under the treaty, countries agree to reduce and hopefully eliminate the production, use and release of twelve specified POPs, known as the “Dirty Dozen.” However, chemicals can be added to the list in the future through a scientific review process, if they generate adequate global concern.
This website offers a brief introduction to the twelve POPs included in the Dirty Dozen.
It also provides an in-depth, chemical overview of three important chemicals and groups of chemicals included in the Dirty Dozen which include:
* By-Products:
* Industrial Chemicals:
* Pesticides:
