'''Persistent organic pollutants''' ('''POP'''s) are a class of chemicals that
persist in the
environment, are capable of long-range transport, bioaccumulate in human and animal
tissue, and have significant impacts on human health and the environment. They include such substances as
dioxin,
PCBs,
DDT, brominated flame-retardants or tributyltin (TBT). POPs released to the environment can travel through air and water to regions far distant from their original source.
The general trend of POPs is the following:
- Synthesis/development.
- Increased use over large areas in Europe and North America.
- Concerns over their persistence, bioaccumulation and bioconcentration.
- Restricted use.
- Reduced emissions, as well as bans and controls.
See also
External links
Source
- Environmental Chemistry Group Newsletter, issue no. 14, July 2001
de:Langlebige organische Schadstoffe