Only minor traces of radioactivity in the fauna of the Arctic Ocean

Only small amounts of radioactive materials have accumulated in the fauna living in the Arctic sea areas of Russia. The radioactivity contents detected correspond to the general levels elsewhere in the world, and most of the radioactivity originates in the Chernobyl fallout. The elevated activity concentrations detected near the mouths of rivers that flow into the Arctic Ocean are explained by deposits carried by the rivers from their drainage basins. Local contamination has only been detected in the Kola Fjord. STUK's (The Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority) Regional Laboratory in Northern Finland has conducted studies of radioactivity levels in the Arctic waters of Russia. These studies constitute a part of the European Union's project 'Radioecological assessment of the consequences of Contamination of Arctic waters. Modelling of key processes controlling radionuclide behaviour under extreme conditions' (ARMARA). Finnish experts also participate in some other radiation and nuclear safety projects, especially in the Murmansk region. These projects improve the safety of the Kola nuclear power plant and enhance preparedness for any accident situations that might arise. (orig.)