Final Report - Regional Program of Action and Demonstration of Sustainable Alternatives to DDT for Malaria Vector Control in Mexico and Central America (Project DDT/UNEP/GEF/PAHO); 2008

Based on the Roll Back Malaria Partnership and the Mexican experience the Project DDT/UNEP/GEF/PAHO was implemented in eight Mesoamerican countries between September 2003 and December 2008. Through this project was demonstrated the effectiveness of alternative methods to DDT for malaria control with community participation and organized a public critical mass that will help to curb any attempt to reintroduce DDT in the sub-region.

Increased public awareness of DDT effects was achieved in public institutions (health, environment, and education), and populations affected, including mayors and indigenous populations, that exercise local social surveillance. Furthermore, it was possible to achieve institutional strengthening for malaria control without using DDT and for monitoring and evaluating environmental and human health risks due to exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs).

Carried out an inventory of pesticides stockpiles in the eight countries and celebrated a contract with a European company for repackaging, transportation and adequate final elimination of 200 tonnes of POPs. Due to a breach of contract from the company and new regulations from the European Union on transportation of dangerous substances, this component will have to be concluded in 2009.

DRAF FINAL REPORT FROM SEPTEMBER 2003 TO DECEMBER 2008 PROJECT DDT/UNEP/GEF/PAHO Final Report