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Persistent organic pollutant (POP)

Persistent organic pollutant (POP)

Definition

Carbon-based or organic compounds that include synthesised substances (e.g. pesticides and PCBs) and by-products generated as a result of both human and natural activity (e.g. dioxins and furan, and hexachlorobenzene [HCB]). POPs are characteristically toxic, environmentally persistent, bioaccumulative in fatty tissues, and semi-volatile. To address global concerns about POPs, an international convention, the Stockholm Convention, was established to reduce/eliminate their production, use, and/or release under the support of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The UNEP acts as the secretariat body for the convention.
See also: Dioxins, Hexachlorobenzene (HCB)
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