Sea otters residing in the coastal areas of British Columbia and Vancouver Island have been found to have high concentrations of persistent toxic chemicals in their bodies, according to a recent study. The research, led by Dana Price, a master’s candidate at the University of British Columbia, analyzed samples from 11 deceased sea otters collected between 2016 and 2021. These chemicals, commonly found in items such as food packaging, cosmetics, and electronics, are known as polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs).
Price emphasized that while the presence of PFAs in sea otters was not unexpected, it is concerning given the potential health risks associated with these substances, including organ damage, cancer, and weakened immune systems. Although the study did not link any otter deaths directly to PFAs, the consistent presence of these chemicals in all samples raises alarms about the long-term impact on marine ecosystems.
Compared to sea otters in the United States, the levels of PFAs in British Columbia otters were relatively lower, possibly due to stricter Canadian regulations and lower human populations in the areas where the otters reside. Price highlighted the significant influence of the otters’ proximity to urban centers on the levels of PFAs found in their bodies, noting that otters living closer to cities had higher concentrations of these chemicals.
The study contributes to the growing body of research highlighting the dangers posed by PFAs. Health Canada has established benchmarks to limit acceptable levels of these chemicals in drinking water, citing potential harm to various bodily systems. Peter Ross, a senior scientist at the Raincoast Conservation Foundation, underscored the importance of such studies in informing regulatory decisions regarding PFAs.
Despite ongoing efforts by agencies like the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to regulate PFAs, the sheer number of these chemicals on the market poses challenges in effectively managing them. Lisa Lucero from the agency acknowledged the complexity of regulating PFAs, with new compounds constantly entering the market even as others are restricted.
Price noted that pinpointing the exact sources of forever chemical contamination is challenging, given their presence in a wide range of consumer products that can enter the ecosystem. The study serves as a critical foundation for future research and regulatory actions aimed at mitigating the impact of PFAs on marine wildlife and ecosystems.
