Examination of fresh water chemistry in maritime Antarctica during austral summer 2017

Abstract

Due to the fact that Antarctica is one of the least polluted places on Earth, it is a perfect place to observe the spread of global pollution. Therefore, research conducted on this continent is important due to the possibility of investigating the type of pollution and their way of transport. This work considers presence of organic contaminants in Maritime Antarctica in unexplored until now, Lions Rump headland. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of samples were carried out in order to determine the content of analytes such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Among all determined PAHs in water samples the highest concentrations was observed for naphthalene and anthracene, which is the result of their higher volatility in comparison to the High Molecular Weight PAHs. The presence of PAHs in the water environment may constitute potential negative effect on Antarctic ecosystem and it should be investigated in detail. Moreover, possibility of undertaking various actions reducing contaminants emission are also very important. We hope that improved fossil fuel economy, and not only on the local scale, would help reduce PAH levels in Maritime Antarctica.