Konposatu organiko iraunkorrak Ingurumenean

Abstract

In the last 60 years chlorinated organic compounds have been widely used in industrial processes. As a consequence, a significant accumulation of persistent organic pollutants (POP) has occurred in the biosphere, with the already known adverse effects: bioaccumulability, non-degradable, liphophilic, toxic and high dispersive. POPs hold accumulative properties in the trophic chain as well as in the liphophilic tissues, finding significant concentrations in the superior predators (human, mammalian and birds). POPs are nocive for the environment and human health and therefore many of them are considered potentially carcinogenic by the WHO (World Health Organization). To face this problem and to achieve an advance towards sustainable development in this matter the Stockholm convention was signed (2001). Under the Convention, countries commit to reduce and/or eliminate the production, use, and/or release of the 12 POPs of greatest concern to the global community and to establish a mechanism by which additional chemicals may be added to the Treaty in the future. To guarantee a sustainable development it is necessary to synthesize alternative compounds to POPs, less harmful to environment, following a socially fair model. Also, it is necessary to make a global and precise inventory of the production, use and elimination of the organic detrimental substances worldwide, developing coordinated global strategies.