Dispersion and transport paths of toxic persistent organochlorines to the Arctic--levels and consequences.

Most people still consider the Arctic as one of the last non-polluted regions of the world. However, recent studies have shown that the levels of organochlorines such as chlorinated pesticides, dibenzofurans and dibenzo-p-dioxins are surprisingly high in biota such as seals and polar bears from the Norwegian and Canadian Arctic. A short review is given of our knowledge concerning levels and sources as well as consequences of the presence of persistent toxic organochlorines in the Arctic. Long-range air transport, in particular, as the main source of these compounds will be discussed in more detail.