Glaciers as a secondary source of anthropogenic contaminants: An emerging socio-environmental challenge
Glaciers provide vital ecosystem services, including water resources, habitat provision, and food and energy security. Once considered pristine, glaciers are now known to accumulate various contaminants, including fallout radionuclides (FRNs) and potentially toxic elements (PTEs), which can pose risks to downstream communities when released through meltwater. This thesis examines the accumulation and potential release of contaminants from glacial environments, with a focus on cryoconite, a contaminant-rich material found on glacier surfaces. Primary data collection and laboratory analyses were conducted on cryoconite samples from the High Arctic and the Peruvian Andes to assess spatial variability in contaminant levels and chemical availability. Additionally, samples from six global glacial regions were examined to assess the chemical availability of PTE. Results revealed high levels of FRNs, particularly 241Am and 137Cs, at activities higher than expected in both the Arctic and Southern Hemisphere, demonstrating extensive atmospheric transport and deposition. Similarly, PTEs such as arsenic, cadmium, and lead in cryoconite exceeded existing quality guidelines for other environmental matrices, raising concerns about the potential bioavailability and ecological impacts of cryoconite once released into glacier meltwaters. The findings from this thesis highlight the necessity for interdisciplinary research and community engagement to address contaminant risks in glacial environments. Additionally, integrating local and traditional knowledge systems, as well as collaboration and knowledge sharing with affected communities is essential for mitigating future socio-environmental injustices and challenges associated with contaminants in glacial environments.
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