DDT

DDT – Historical Pesticide with Environmental Impact

DDT is a synthetic organochlorine pesticide that was widely used in the mid-20th century for controlling mosquitoes and agricultural pests. Highly effective in reducing vector-borne diseases such as malaria, it played a significant role in public health campaigns.

However, due to its persistence in the environment, bioaccumulation in wildlife, and potential health risks to humans, DDT has been banned or severely restricted in many countries since the 1970s under international agreements.

Key Facts:

• Effective broad-spectrum pesticide historically used in agriculture and public health

• Persistent in the environment and accumulates in the food chain

• Linked to adverse effects on wildlife, especially birds

• Associated with potential human health risks

• Now banned or restricted under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants

DDT serves as an important case study in pesticide regulation, environmental health, and the development of safer alternatives.