Alternatives to DDT Usage for the Production of Anti-fouling Paint

China is still using DDT in anti-fouling paint; a usage that was long abandoned in other parts of the world and for which no exemption exists under the Stockholm Convention on POPs. China is the only country that has reported such usage. The amount of DDT in anti-fouling paint is approximately 5% by weight, leading to an estimated release to the environment of 250 tons of DDT per annum. Most of the antifouling paint that does not contain DDT (about half) is TBT-based, a usage addressed by the IMO convention. The objective is to phase-out the use of DDT in anti-fouling paint, and promote the production, distribution and use of alternative products, whilst supporting the long-term phase out of TBT as well.