| Heavy metal contamination in the High Arctic is a growing concern. While studies have been conducted measuring long range and large point source pollutants, little research has been done on small point sources such as municipal waste disposal sites. Cadmium and lead are recognized by the Canadian Government as metals of concern. In 2003 a study was conducted near Resolute, Nunavut, Canada (74°43'N, 95°55'W) to determine the extent of cadmium and lead leaching from a local dumpsite. Transects were established downslope from the point of disposal and water and soil samples were collected for metal analysis. Only trace amounts of cadmium, and no lead concentrations were detected in the water samples. In the soil samples, low concentrations of cadmium and lead were found that were slightly above background levels, but not exceeding government regulations. Overall this municipal waste disposal site does not contain unhealthy concentrations of cadmium or lead. |
