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Northern overexposure

D J Tenenbaum

    Environmental Health Perspectives
    |February 11, 1998
    PubMed
    Summary

    Arctic ecosystems are contaminated with heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, and nuclear radiation due to global transport. These pollutants persist and accumulate, posing risks to wildlife and the environment.

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    Area of Science:

    • Environmental Science
    • Ecotoxicology
    • Arctic Studies

    Background:

    • The Arctic environment, despite its remote location, faces significant contamination.
    • Pollutants include heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and nuclear radiation.
    • These contaminants originate from industrial regions outside the Arctic.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To highlight the presence and pathways of global contaminants in the Arctic.
    • To explain the factors contributing to pollutant persistence and accumulation.
    • To underscore the potential risks to the Arctic ecosystem and its inhabitants.

    Main Methods:

    • Analysis of contaminant transport via ocean currents and atmospheric winds.
    • Assessment of environmental factors (low temperature, limited sunlight) affecting pollutant decay.
    • Investigation of bioaccumulation processes in Arctic organisms.

    Main Results:

    • High levels of heavy metals, POPs (e.g., pesticides), and nuclear radiation detected in the Arctic.
    • Global transport mechanisms are the primary source of these contaminants.
    • Slow decay rates and bioaccumulation lead to dangerous concentrations.

    Conclusions:

    • The Arctic is a sink for global pollutants, posing a significant environmental threat.
    • Contaminant persistence is exacerbated by Arctic conditions.
    • Urgent attention is needed to address the impact of these pollutants on Arctic ecosystems.

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