The influence of climate change on distribution and deposition processes for persistent organic pollutants on Svalbard

Based upon an initiative of an already ongoing scientific exchange and research program (NorthPOP: 185104/S50) a research project is planned to foster and harmonize the scientific co-operation between the Russian and Norwegian research activities in envir onmental chemistry on Svalbard. As priority topic the influence of climate-change processes on transformation and deposition of priority organic pollutants under local Svalbard conditions will be investigated. More specifically, photochemical transformati on and scavenging/ deposition of priority chemicals will be scientifically evaluated. The project is planned for a three year period (2010-2012). The main activity will be medium-term research activities utilizing research infrastructures available in Bar entsburg, Pyramiden, Ny-Ålesund and Longyearbyen (Longyearbyen Research Park). Climate-change influences on the presence on anthropogenic POPs in the Svalbard environment will be studies in the abiotic environment focusing on atmospheric deposition and tr ansformation processes associated to snow and ice surfaces. Scientific expertise, planning and logistical experiences in field work, laboratory facilities from both the Norwegian and the Russian experts will be utilized in order to gain comprehensive sci entific knowledge on the priority topics of the planned project.