The Arctic Dilemma: Indigenous peoples of the Arctic, diet and long-range transport of contaminants

Owing to their traditional way of life, and reliance on foods obtained from fishing and hunting, indigenous peoples of the Arctic are especially vulnerable to contaminants present in the Arctic environment. From long-range transport from rest of the World, persistent pollutants are present in the food-chains of the Arctic and gets accumulated at the top level - in animals such as whales and seals. Mercury and other heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants such as PCB and DDT (even though they are being faced out) are examples of threats to the health and traditional lifestyles. A change in diet to imported foods create a new set of problems, including a loss of traditions, reliance on outside support and nutrient deficiencies.