Banning Pestides

The Persistent organic pollutant(POP), Endosulfan is still responsible for severe health and environmental impacts.(Environmental Justice Foundation) Endosulfran is one of the worlds most dangerous pesticides. It has been banned in 62 countries but has yet to be included under the Stockham Convention, which would lead to a global ban or production use. Endosulfran can be used as a wood preservative but it is very harmful to farmers and children who apply it to crops. The EFJ in a September 2009 release stated that Endosulfan is the dominant pesticide in the cotton sector in 19 countries! Endosulfan is harmful to humans because the substance is readily absorbed through the lungs, stomach and even through the skin. Another major factor is the chemical has remained in the environment and continues to spread.(UK- based nonprofits) Endosulfran has been linked to congenital physical disorders, poisoning and death.Endosulfan has also been found in remote regions such as Artic, Alps and the Himalayas. Traces of the chemical have been found in animals across the world from polar bear in animals across the world from polar bear to crocodiles to Minke Whales! Europe's formerly biggest producer of Endosulfan last month in the Bayer CropScience confirmed it will phase out the sale of the pesticide in 2010 due to pressure from Campaigners like Environmental Justice Foundation and Pestcidies Action Network.

In my opinion the article was very interesting. Although i am very bothered that Endosulfan is not banned in every country. I know it is very useful pesticide but if it harming so much life ,is it worth it? I found it very interesting that the chemical stays in the environment and was found in areas like the Himalayas, while reading this article PCB's kept on coming to mind. Endosulfan can be compared to PCB. I'm just wondering why hasn't Endosulfran been banned in every country yet? Also what can we do to get rid of the Endosulfan thats in the environment?

Shanice Hines.