Seals in Trouble: The Hidden Danger in Lake Saimaa's Water

A Unique Population Under Siege

Lake Saimaa in Finland is home to a unique group of ringed seals. These seals are facing a silent threat—polluted water.

The Invisible Danger: PFOS and PFAS

The water is contaminated with harmful chemicals known as perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS). PFOS is part of a larger group of man-made chemicals called PFAS.

• Persistent in the Environment: PFAS do not break down easily.
• Big Problem for Wildlife: They pose a significant risk to Lake Saimaa's ecosystem.

Scientific Findings: A Concerning Discovery

Scientists studied PFOS levels in the tissues of both adult and baby seals:

• High Concentrations in Liver: Found in all seals.
• High Levels in Kidneys of Babies: Even the youngest seals are affected.

The Food Chain: Fish Contaminated with PFOS

The fish that seals eat have very high levels of PFOS:

• Exceed Safe Limits: The contamination is severe.
• Potential Health Risks: Seals consuming these fish could be falling ill.

A Mix of Chemicals: Even Greater Harm

The fish in Lake Saimaa also contain other PFAS chemicals:

• More Harmful Than PFOS Alone: The combination could be even more dangerous.
• Scientists' Concerns: The pollution may be seriously harming the seals.