Short- and Medium-Chain Chlorinated Paraffins in fish, water and soils from the Iqaluit, Nunavut (Canada), area

Abstract

Concentrations and sources of short- and medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (CP) were examined in the city of Iqaluit, Nunavut. Tissues from the Arctic char and the ninespine stickleback were analysed, as were terrestrial sediments near landfills. Water and sediments from local streams were tested along with water draining from the sewage lagoon and sediments near the lagoon's outlet. Significant concentrations of CP in sediment and water from some sites indicate ongoing local sources of contamination, although concentrations in Arctic char do not appear to pose a risk for secondary consumers. Areas associated with waste disposal had higher levels of CP.