Persistent organic pollutants (POPs)

Definition

POPs are toxic chemicals that persist in the environment for long periods of time and can bioaccumulate in living organisms. They can travel long distances through air and water, posing a threat to both human health and the environment.

Related terms

Bioaccumulation:

The process by which toxins, like POPs, build up in the tissues of organisms over time.

Biomagnification:

The increase in concentration of toxins, such as POPs, as they move up the food chain.

DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane): A well-known example of a POP that was widely used as an insecticide but has since been banned due to its harmful effects on wildlife and humans.