Global action is urgently needed to find more cost effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to the toxic chemical dicophane (DDT), which is used to control malaria, international experts say.

To advance the search, 80 experts from 26 countries met in Geneva last week, under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), to craft a business plan to promote a global partnership for developing and deploying alternatives to DDT.

DDT is one of 12 substances restricted under the Stockholm convention on persistent organic pollutants, a global treaty that seeks to protect human health and the environment. The convention has given an exemption for public health purposes and permits the use …