Lincoln Chafee: “Today I introduce the POPs, LRTAP POPs, and PIC Implementation Act of 2003, along with Senator Jeffords. This…”

“Today I introduce the POPs, LRTAP POPs, and PIC Implementation Act of 2003, along with Senator Jeffords. This legislation implements the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), the Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRTAP POPs), and the Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade (PIC). With advice and consent by the Senate and with passage of this legislation, the United States will appropriately become an active participant in these important international agreements. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are highly toxic and cause adverse health effects, including cancer, reproductive disorders, and immune system disruptions. POPs may not break down for years or decades, can travel long distances through air and water, and are known to bioaccumulate in living organisms. PCBs, DDT, and dioxin are examples of POPs. The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants seeks to globally eliminate or severely restrict the production and use of 12 of the most dangerous pesticides and industrial chemicals, ensure the environmentally sound management of POPs waste, and prevent the emergence of new chemicals with POPs-like characteristics.”