Los compuestos orgánicos persistentes en la biosfera: El enemigo global e invisible

5 pages , 4 figures.-- Ejemplar dedicado a: Canvi global. El nostre impacte sobre la terra.Persistent organic pollutants and their accumulation in the biosphere. The manufacture and use, since 1940, of a series of pesticides and industrial organic products with high levels of chlorination has led to the bio-accumulation in the biosphere of these non-degradable, fat-soluble and toxic compounds. Due to their semi-volatility they spread throughout all ecosystems, principally those located in cold places. These persistent organic compounds bio-accumulate in the food chain and animals, particularly the main predators, which suffer their harmful effects. Humans are included in this group since these compounds are found in all individuals at low concentrations, e.g. micrograms per litre in blood. Thus, the scientific community must identify the problems derived from long term exposure to these compounds in humans, especially in some individuals over 50 years of age or even at all development stages.Peer reviewe