8.7 Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)

Describe the effect of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) on ecosystems.

• Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) do not easily break down in the environment because they are synthetic, carbon-based molecules (such as DDT and PCBs).
• Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can be toxic to organisms because they are soluble in fat, which allows them to accumulate in organisms’ fatty tissues.
• Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can travel over long distances via wind and water before being redeposited.
• Enduring understanding STB-3: Human activities, including the use of resources, have physical, chemical, and biological consequences for ecosystems.