Question

why have we discontinued use and/or made it illegal to use DDT and other halogenated pesticides in the United States? (10 pt.) 10)

Answer 1

DDT is an organochlorine  pesticides DDT and other halogenated pesticide was a commonly-used pesticide for insect control in the United States.

In 1972, EPA issued a cancellation order for DDT based on its adverse environmental effects, such as those to wildlife, as well as its potential human health risks. Since then, studies have continued, and a relationship between DDT exposure and reproductive effects in humans is suspected, based on studies in animals. In addition, some animals exposed to DDT in studies developed liver tumors. As a result, today, DDT is classified as a probable human carcinogen by U.S. and international authorities

The chemicals killed insects effectively, yes, but such pesticides become more and more concentrated as they travel up the food chain. When birds like the peregrine falcon ate several different contaminated prey animals. they suddenly had huge concentrations of DDT in their body. Consequentially, the chemicals damaged their eggs so that the shells were too thin to protect the chicks, and the eggs would easily break at the slightest touch. The impact on peregrine falcons and many other animals led to the banning of the pesticide.