New research shows that chemicals now being detected in Arctic wildlife could be leftover from decades ago. PFCAs [1] (perfluorocarboxylates) are a class of man-made chemicals used for years in products that resist heat, stain, and grease—like fireproof insulation, non-stick pans, and stain-resistant carpeting. These chemicals don't break down in the environment and have been found in the tissue of many animals, where they can cause cancer.

According to a new study [2], PFCAs are being carried by the oceans to high latitudes, where they are contaminating wildlife—and even snow—in places where no humans live. Lawsuits involving PFCAs are on the rise, and DuPont recently was slapped with a $100 million fine in a class-action suit. The company, which manufactures these types of chemical compounds, was also fined by the EPA for withholding PFCA data.

Conventional wisdom held that these chemicals were reaching the Arctic by air. But if they're traveling in the ocean, it would be a much slower process, meaning chemicals from decades ago would only now be reaching the land of polar bears. New research into PFCAs could have an impact on both future lawsuits and potential regulation of the chemicals—both of which could mean billion-dollar losses to companies that manufacture PFCAs.

For more information on toxic chemicals in the Arctic and how you can decrease your use of harmful chemicals, visit the WWF's comprehensive web pages on the subject [3].

Photo credit: WWF [4]