Levels and effects of persistent organic pollutants in arctic animals

Abstract

The levels of POPs in the arctic environment are generally lower than found in more temperate regions. The present article shows that, while the levels of some POPs are decreasing (e.g., PCBs and DDTs), the levels of other POPs (brominated flame retardants and fluorinated) are increasing in the arctic animals. The main reason for this increase is the increase in the global production and use of these contaminants. The POP levels found in polar bears and glaucous gulls from these areas exceed the effect thresholds as demonstrated by laboratory and field studies, which indicate present POP level influence behavioural-, biochemical-, physiological- and immunological parameters. Today there is enough evidence to suggest that the contaminant levels affect the health of polar bears and glaucous gulls from Svalbard and Bjornoya. Further monitoring and research is needed to get a better understanding of the relationship between POP exposure and biological effects in arctic animals. © 2007 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.