Monitoring results indicate generally low levels of contaminants in the Barents Sea - although with some exceptions. The levels of most heavy metals are low, with the exception of Ni and As in sediments. Levels of atmospheric input of heavy metals into the area are decreasing for some metals, but increasing for others. For most of the monitored substances in the Barents Sea the levels of contamination are well below the limit values for human consumption. The  concentration of heavy metals and POPs is generally lower in the Arctic environment than in temperate regions but in the last few years there is  a tendency for an increase in concentration in air for some POPs like  HCB and PAH. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that accumulate in organisms at the top of the food chain are of special concern. Another matter of concern is distribution and contents of radioactive substances in the marine environment which may pose major risks to the whole ecosystem.

This section present extended information on pollution issues shown in themes presented in the GIS Service. Observe that there are currently no GIS maps in the category Contaminants in seabirds, but figures are made to give a visual picture of pollution levels in common seabirds, and in their muscle and liver tissues, and i egg.

Please go to the themes shown in the fly-out menu under MAP SERVICE/Pollution to find articles.