Studies of environmental pollutants in wetland areas and water ponds on the Arctic tundra

The main goal for this project is to continue our study further the role of birds in transporting pollutants to and within the Arctic area, and to bring new knowledge especially linked to potential transport between the marine and terrestrial system including wetlands and water ponds on the tundra. Main groups of emerging contaminants that will be included are per-fluorochemicals (PFAS/PFOS) and technology-critical elements (Pd, Pt, Nb, Ta, Ga, In, Ge, Te) that are known to have potential spread mechanisms involving water systems. Additional main elements and other trace elements and heavy metals will be studied. Wetlands and water pond systems on the Arctic tundra is important areas for both birds and reindeers, and enriched levels of pollutants in these systems could potentially be an important source for uptake in animals that in generals uses these water resources. The planned work will also measure on-site physical/chemical properties of the water systems (pH, natural organic carbon content, temperature, and degree of sun exposure).