Environmental problems in freshwater ecosystems

The environmental problems in the border regions between Norway and Russia are subject to large media interest and public concerns, in particular in relation to the large emissions of heavy metals and sulphuric dioxide from the Russian metallurgic smelters in Nikel and Zapoljarny.

The Freshwater Ecology Group has since 1991 participated in environmental studies in the border areas in close cooperation with Russian scientists. The investigations have in particular been related to the extent and impacts of heavy metal contaminations in freshwater fish.

We are also enhancing our research activities related to the impacts of climate changes on freshwater ecosystems.