When you think of the remote wilderness, perhaps you picture a land untouched by humans. It may be a place that is pristine and unblemished. After all, it is far removed from the impacts of society. The reality presents a different picture.
Scientific research published in the December 16 issue of Science offers new evidence that the impacts of humans extend far beyond the sources. Researchers found that some of the most remote lakes of the United States, Canada and Scandinavia show increased nitrogen deposition in the sediment.
Changes in the Aquatic Environment
The concern is that chemical changes in the water will negatively impact micro-organism populations. Micro-organisms and algal flora form the foundation of aquatic ecosystems. A change in their populations can have ramifications that potentially can affect the entire food chain. Researchers documented an acceleration in these effects over the last 60 years.
In essence, increases in nitrogen concentrations create remote algal blooms. Nitrogen stimulates the growth of algae that may exceed the capacity of the water body. The algae begins to die off, triggering a rise in decomposing bacteria populations. The end result is a depletion of dissolved oxygen that can affect any life form dependent upon these ecosystems.
Sources of Pollution
Researchers postulated that the nitrogen levels have been affected by the commercialization of artificial fertilizers as well as an increase in fossil fuel emissions. Both represent abundant sources of atmospheric nitrogen. The mobility presents the threat to remote wilderness areas.
This effect is not new. The consequences of sulfur dioxide emissions and the resulting acid rain are well-documented. The fact that nitrogen is also a player provides a stark reminder that pollution is rarely confined to the immediate area. If air or water comes into contact with contaminants, their circle of impact grows.
While many may doubt the validity of climate change, these findings provide sobering evidence of the impacts of humans on the entire planet. The immediate effects are visible. Another more serious threat looms if the toxic water of Arctic lakes travel to other regions. Unless action is taken, the idea of a remote, pristine wilderness may no longer exist.
