STOCKHOLM CONVENTION on POPs:


Introduction to the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants


The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty to protect human health and the environment from persistent organic pollutants (POPs). POPs are chemicals that remain intact in the environment for long periods, become widely distributed geographically, accumulate in the fatty tissue of living organisms and are toxic to humans and wildlife. POPs circulate globally and can cause damage wherever they travel. In implementing the Convention, Governments should take measures to eliminate or reduce the release of POPs into the environment.

The POPs chemicals covered are the eight chemicals used as pesticides, two industrial compounds and dioxins and furans appearing as unintentional byproducts in chemical production and during burning of chlorinated substances.

  • Pesticides: aldrin, DDT, dieldrin, endrin, heptachlor, chlordane, mirex and toxaphene
  • Industrial compounds: hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
  • Unintentional byproducts: hexachlorobenzene, PCB, PCBs,
    • polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF) - a general name "dioxins" is used for the last two groups of chemicals.

    The Stockholm Convention requires countries to ban the production of POPs pesticides and industrial chemicals and reduce, and wherever feasible, eliminate sources of dioxins. The convention was signed in May 23rd, 2001 in Stockholm.

    The Stockholm Convention was valid after it was signed and ratified by the 50th state. Citizens of all countries should support prompt ratification and practical implementation of the convention.

      Stockholm Convention (UNEP page) - open new window









    Version: 2.0 (June 1, 2006)