strategy
Monitoring accumulation of pollutants in terrestrial wildlife
Synonyms:
Monitoring contaminant residues in terrestrial animals Context:
Selenium, mercury, and other toxic elements in agricultural runoff and drainage from mines and power plants have caused an "epidemic of deformed birds in the U.S." Implementation:
Scientists at the University of Glasgow have developed a technique to measure the mercury levels in birds by testing 3 or 4 feathers, which can be taken from living birds wihout causing harm. These scientists also obtain skin and feather samples from museums and historical collections to compare the mercury levels from the past with today. Puffins from the 1800s , for instance, show half the level of mercury as puffins today. While the mercury levels in the birds tested were still not enough to be harmful, the increase gives scientists insights into changes in our environment. Subjects:
Earth → Earth Zoology → Animals
Geography → Wild
Societal Problems → Pollution
Societal Problems → Waste
Research, Standards → Inspection, tests
Type Classification:
G: Very Specific strategies Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
