Reducing toxics in the Arctic

A global problem

Many pollutants of concern in the Arctic were not produced or ever used in the Arctic. Instead, industrial and agricultural chemicals from other areas of the world travel great distances via air and water currents to finally end up in the remote Arctic.

In fact, some chemicals are found in higher concentrations in the Arctic then in the countries where they are actually made and used. 

The Arctic acts as a final "sink" where pollutants become trapped

There is a tendency for many chemicals to move from warmer to colder climates. The so-called "Persistent Organic Pollutants" (POPs) are highly volatile, man-made chemicals that easily evaporate into the air but are slow to degrade.

When air masses carrying these contaminants reach the arctic region the "cold-condensation effect" occurs, this is when air contaminants condense and are carried to the ground in rain or snow. Strong winds are capable of moving contaminants across the world in just days.

Pollutants are also transported to the Arctic via ocean and river currents, melting sea-ice, and migratory birds. Long, dark winters and cold temperatures inhibit the breakdown of chemicals in the Arctic. In addition to POPs, other contaminants of concern include heavy metals and radionuclides.

Arctic animals are especially vulnerable to contaminants

Plants and wildlife take up toxins through contaminated air, soil, water, and food. Arctic animals, such as polar bears, whales and seals, are long-lived and have high levels of fat to insulate them against the cold climate.

Many toxins accumulate in fat and animals with a long life span have time to build up high levels of toxins in their bodies. As animals use their fat reserves during periods of hibernation, toxins become more concentrated in blood, organs, and their remaining fat.

Toxin levels increase moving up the food chain (a process called biomagnification) and are highest in top predators, such as polar bears and wolves. Humans are at the very top of the food chain and Arctic indigenous peoples are exposed to contaminants through a traditional diet.

Health effects

There is evidence that arctic indigenous peoples and wildlife contain toxic contaminants in their bodies. However, further studies are needed to determine if, or to what extent, these contaminants cause adverse health effects in both humans and wildlife. Research thus far shows the potential for problems related to reproduction, hormone function, development, and immunity.