What is DDT?
DDT was a commonly-used pesticide for insect control in the United States until it was canceled in 1972 by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It was used during WWII to combat malaria, typhus and other diseases that affected citizens and military during the war. It is still used for the same reason in developing countries that have similar problems.
Why shouldn't DDT be used for developing countries?
In developing countries, many families own farms that have products shipped across the world. To add on to this, DDT is extremely toxic to wildlife, further damaging farms in developing areas. Unfortunately, the World Health Organization has endorsed DDT even though there are healthier and safer ways to combat malaria.
Why does this affect me?
DDT affects our everyday lives, many foods we eat contain DDT if not washed properly. Not only will banning the distribution of DDT help stop the damaging of wildlife and food that we consume from other countries, but it will promote healthier ways to combat diseases. Let us bring attention to these problems to WHO and the EPA to stop the distribution of DDT, allowing wildlife and families to continue living without worrying about the problems involving DDT.
Click here for further information on the damaging effects of DDT: http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/ddtgen.pdf
