Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are chemical substances that are persistent, accumulate in living tissues, and pose a risk of causing adverse effects to human health and the environment. POPs include DDT, Dieldrin, Dioxins and PCBs.

Exposure to very low doses of certain POPs can lead to cancer, damage to the central and peripheral nervous systems, diseases of the immune system, reproductive disorders, and interfer with normal child development.

There is further evidence of the long-range transport of these substances to regions where they have never been used or produced.

There is international concern for global action to reduce and eliminate POP contamination of the environment.

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There is a UN Convention that controls the exchange of various pesticides and other chemicals by ensuring the prior informed consent of receiving countries.