Environmental Health in the Changing Arctic

Abstract

Human health and well-being are the result of complex interactions among genetic, social, cultural and environmental factors. Especially in the Arctic regions, where the climate and living conditions are demanding, the environment and nature are important elements for good and safe every-day life. Changes in the environment and climate have huge impacts on life in the Arctic areas. The Arctic has been contaminated by chemicals resulting from human activities and natural processes, mostly from distant sources via the atmosphere, rivers and ocean currents. Arctic environment is now in great change with the melting of permafrost and ice, which may release some of the accumulated contaminants into water and air. The results of the multidisciplinary ArcRisk research project show that the contaminants may re-circulate in the food-webs and concentrate in food items. The processes and pathways between environmental compartments are very complex, and influenced by many factors, like weather conditions, temperature and ice cover. The future Arctic will be more urbanized, with a more elderly population and closer connections to the other parts of the globe. All of this will be a big challenge for the health and well-being of the different populations, indigenous and non-indigenous, living in rural and urban areas. It is important to focus on living conditions, including clean air, water and food, which all will support good life in the Arctic. The results of the ArcRisk project provide important information for the decision-makers on how to meet the future needs of the changing Arctic.