Environmental occurrence

We study how PFAS are released, distributed and circulated in the Antarctic environment, especially under melting and climate change conditions.

How PFAS spread throughout the Antarctic environment

During the austral summer, when Antarctic snow and ice melt, the thaw releases PFAS that had been trapped for years or even decades. This reintroduces them into the Southern Ocean, where they can circulate once again.

This process increases contaminant concentrations and disperses them across the ocean surface, especially near coastal areas. The effect may be more noticeable at the sea surface, a very thin layer where many substances and microscopic organisms concentrate.

This research area studies how PFAS concentrations in water change, how they are distributed across space and time, and how climate change is intensifying this process.

Researchers

Cristóbal Galbán

Karla Pozo

Deniz Bozkurt

FAQs

Where are PFAS found?

PFAS are found in the environment (water, soil and air) and in consumer products due to their persistence, accumulating in humans and animals. They are commonly present in non-stick coatings (Teflon), waterproof clothing, carpets, food packaging, cosmetics and firefighting foams.

How do PFAS reach Antarctica?

Although Antarctica is far from industrial centers, chemical pollution spreads on a global scale. PFAS can reach Antarctica through atmospheric transport, ocean currents and local human activities.

Are there international regulations on PFAS?

Some PFAS are regulated under international agreements such as the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, which aims to eliminate or restrict hazardous chemical substances that persist in the environment.

Why is Antarctica no longer considered a pollution-free ecosystem?

Because contaminants such as PFAS have been detected in air, water, ice and living organisms, showing that even the most remote ecosystems are connected to global human activity.

Does glacier melting release accumulated contaminants in Antarctica?

Yes, glacier melt releases PFAS that have been trapped for decades, reintroducing them into the ocean and increasing their circulation throughout the ecosystem.