Although levels of DDT contamination are gradually falling in countries wherethe pesticide has been banned, new scientific research suggests that the chemicalsare still a serious threat everywhere. Studies show that even small amounts of
pesticides can disrupt the working of human hormones, interfering withreproduction and the functioning of the immune system. That’s whyrepresentatives of more than 100 nations gathered at a U.N. meeting in Nairobito work toward a global treaty that would phase out DDT and 11 otherpesticides, known as the “dirty dozen.” Environmentalists say it’s possible tofind alternative way to fight malaria—and get rid of DDT once and for all.