Developing countries programs

In most of developed countries, programs to monitor the presence of pesticides in the environment are being carried out, dealing with air, water and soil contamination. These programs detect exposures to pesticides or other chemicals that are likely to cause disease. The goal for public health agencies is to obtain the amounts of these pesticides that are to be found in the population [21]. 

The story of vitamin B-12 lends support to all developing country programs designed to improve animal production and to increase the supply and consumption of animal protein. Also, it is recognized that vitamin B-12 deficiency is not an uncommon consequence of many diseases and of... 

In 1972, the Agency for International Development (AID) cooperated with the Sulphur Institute to prepare a program to evaluate the feasibihty of using the sulfur surface-bond technique in developing countries. Afterwards AID awarded a contract to Southwest Research Institute to constmct houses in South America and Africa using this technique. Under the contract, about 60 houses have been completed (62). 

Rotavirus. Rotavims causes infant diarrhea, a disease which has major socio-economic impact. In developing countries it is the major cause of death in infants worldwide, causing up to 870,000 deaths per year. In the United States, diarrhea is stiU a primary cause of physician visits and hospitalization, although the mortaUty rate is relatively low. Studies have estimated a substantial cost benefit for a vaccination program in the United States (67—69). Two membrane proteins (VP4 and VP7) of the vims have been identified as protective epitopes and most vaccine development programs are based on these two proteins as antigens. Both Hve attenuated vaccines and subunit vaccines are being developed (68). 

For many industrialized countries, efforts to improve the outdoor air quality have been under way for the majority of this century. In many locations around the world, significant improvements have taken place. Air quality in many major cities such as London, New York, and Chicago has improved from the conditions present in the first half of the twentieth century. Mechanisms and control programs are in place in the developed countries to continue the improvement of ambient air quality. Considerable effort and energy have been expended to characterize, evaluate, and control air pollution emissions to the atmosphere. 

Where regional development is to be undertaken it is reasonable to adopt a positive ecological approach. This can begin with the formulation of a conservation policy with specific goals. These may include the conservation of individual animal/plant species or habitat types which are threatened by development. A program of conservation projects (e.g. the setting up of national parks, country parks or natural reserves) will meet the goals. This positive approach to the ecosystem will not only benefit wildlife but will also create the opportunities for tourism and leisure, which are vital adjuncts to most development projects. 

Parr RM, Fajgelj A, Dekner R, Vera Ruiz H, Carvalho FP, and Povinec PP (1998) IAEA analytical quality assurance programs to meet the present and future needs of developing countries. Fresenius J Anal Chem 360 287-290. 

The UNIDO project Demonstration of Cleaner Production Techniques 11 demonstrates that the concept of preventing wastes at their source as opposed to end-of-pipe treatment is as applicable and profitable in developing countries as in developed countries. The experience gained as well as the demonstrations produced will be of great value in the promotion and implementation of a Cleaner Production Program. 

Abstract RISKCYCLE is an artificial word which addresses the risks associated with the global recycling streams. As part of materials like waste paper, plastic, and electronics, pollutants and chemical additives are transported abroad, e.g., they are exported to emerging and developing countries. Here these pollutants/additives can cause risks for humans and the environment especially if treatment/recycling is performed on a lower technical standard. The specific risks that can occur have been studied in an international EU-funded research program, which is the basis of this publication. 

More information about the program Strengthening Science-Based Decision Making in Developing Countries and about the Science and Technology for Sustainability Program is available online at www.nationalacademies.org/sustainability. This workshop summary is available online at www.nap.edu. 

The sensitivity of an explosive to impact and friction is a key factor in deciding whether it finds practical use. Most developed countries have an ongoing program to gradually replace current explosives and propellants with insensitive materials, a process which will greatly reduce the risk of accidental detonation. At present these programs are still in their early phases. 

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