DDT

The History of DDT Shows Government Agencies Have Responsibility for Today's Skepticism about Science

by Elena Conis

The willingness to share information about the toxicity of pesticides has long been compromised by the government's interest in their economic usefulness. From COVID to climate, today's crises show the need for a new balance of transparency and profitability.

Using DDT to Fight Polio was a Mistake, but Learning from it was Valuable

by Elena Conis

Recent Ivermectin mania echoes the moment in 1940s America when spurious science led American communities to demand to be sprayed with the noxious insecticide, believing it would prevent polio outbreaks; the episode underscores the need for patience in pursuing public health. 

Shocking Environmental Disaster Uncovered off California Coast after 70 Years

A marine scientist using a remote submarine camera recently discovered the visible portion of what may be as many as a half-million barrels of DDT dumped between Long Beach and Catalina Island when new environmental regulations banned the pesticide.