A new study found that mercury pollution from early coal burning and gold mining is still poisoning Arctic wildlife over 100 years later. Researchers analyzed over 700 samples collected in Greenland and found that mercury levels in top predators like polar bears and toothed whales remain high, despite global efforts to curb emissions.
Legacy pollution, transported by ocean currents, is the main culprit behind the persistently high mercury levels. The study suggests it may take generations for the Arctic to recover from this long-term threat. Mercury concentrations are now 20-30 times higher than pre-industrial levels in polar bears and toothed whales, posing a significant risk to their health.
The World Health Organization lists mercury as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern due to its potent neurotoxic effects. The findings carry serious implications for the UN Minamata Convention, a global agreement aimed at reducing mercury pollution.
Source: https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/polar-bears-poisoned-mercury