Which countries have not banned the pesticide DDT yet?

Answer 1

DDT is a persistent chemical - it does not break down after it is used. So if you spray DDT to kill bugs, and birds eat the bugs, the birds now have DDT in them. Some species of birds almost went extinct because the DDT made their eggshells so weak that the chicks couldn't survive. You don't want to have a chemical around that solves one problem, but creates a hundred more.

Answer 2

About 25 countries still use it off and on like Brazil, S. Africa, etc. , as there is a limited exemption clause to the phasing out that excludes use of it in areas needed to combat malaria. It is still the least costly, most effective way to treat mosquitoes until a better solution is found.