Photo Source

Since Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring”, scientists and many consumers have become more aware of the dangers of pesticides such as DDT and dieldrin. Farmer’s markets and organic suppliers advocate for products that have been grown without the use of herbicides, pesticides and artificial fertilizers.  ”Recent scientific evidence points to the harmful effects of pesticides on people’s health, especially that of children and other vulnerable groups. Relatively low doses of hazardous pesticides can seriously affect human health, have long-term effects and may be a factor in the occurrence of various diseases including cancer, neurodevelopmental disorders, Parkinson’s and respiratory problems. Substantial legislative measures are therefore needed to protect human health and to address the special vulnerability of children, women of child-bearing age and pregnant women and to prevent their exposure to hazardous pesticides.” (From the “Health and Environment Alliance” website.)

 ”How Stuff Works” has a short, but informative video about bioaccumulation and biomagnification.