DDT is still affecting reproduction in the Arctic peregrine falcon. Heavy metals Mercury is an emerging issue. There is evidence of elevated levels and there are indications that levels are increasing. Mercury emission are expected to increase with increased use of coal. Radioactivity Accidental releases remain the largest single threat.
Arctic people are more vulnerable to a nuclear accident due to important food chain characteristics.
Any remedial actions must be assessed against the 'do-nothing' option. Countermeasures have already been required in Scandinavia to protect people. There is clear evidence of severe environmental damage around Russian smelters. Solutions exist for the 'technological fix', but need to be implemented. Petroleum hydrocarbons There have already been serious impacts on a regional scale, e.g. Komi.