Last week the United Nations announced plans to ban the toxin DDT by 2020. Plans are being hatched out to reduce the use of DDT world wide by 30% as early as 2014 and then implement programs that would finally see the end of this harmful chemical for good.
DDT is used mostly in developing countries to fight Malaria. The chemical has not been used in the United States since the 70's after its negative effects upon the environment were recognized. The near extinction of the Bald Eagle was the direct result of DDT. Spraying in agricultural areas led to toxic run off in the streams and water-ways which the Bald Eagle fished. When the eagle ingested contaminated fish, eggs produced contained an imbalance of calcium. This resulted in the eagle's inability to successfully breed since the eggs would be crushed when the parents attempted to incubate. Thanks to the ban of DDT, The Endangered Species Act, and successful breeding programs, the Bald Eagle is once again thriving.
It is difficult to balance the needs of people and protecting the environment. DDT has been an effective resource for controlling mosquito populations which is the reason why so many people in developing nations die each year from Malaria. However, programs in countries like Mexico that use alternative methods of mosquito control have seen positive results in reducing Malaria outbreaks. These programs include using more effective mosquito nets, draining stagnant bodies of water, and education.
It is my hope that these programs continue to produce positive results so Mother Earth can finally witness the end of the deadly toxin DDT.
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I'm with you: if there are alternative means that provide satisfying results, then hopefully we can be rid of something that is toxic to various wildlife.
ReplyDeleteyeah i agree too...especially those countries where malaria are rampant like malaysia and philippines. The government should addressed this problem otherwise our children's children will only see eagles and other extinct animals in books.
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