River in northern Alaska turns orange due to rising heavy metal pollution
Arctic rivers in northern Alaska are dramatically changing colour due to melting permafrost releasing hidden metals like iron. This thawing process exposes mineral-rich soils, leading to increased metal levels and acidity in waterways. Scientists are concerned about the impact on aquatic life and Indigenous communities relying on these rivers, highlighting a significant climate-driven transformation of polar landscapes.
Arctic rivers in northern Alaska are dramatically changing colour due to melting permafrost releasing hidden metals like iron. This thawing process exposes mineral-rich soils, leading to increased metal levels and acidity in waterways. Scientists are concerned about the impact on aquatic life and Indigenous communities relying on these rivers, highlighting a significant climate-driven transformation of polar landscapes.
