This work draws together current research on the origins and effects of pollutants in the Artic area and the implications for arctic ecology and fauna as well as more far-reaching global change. Topics discussed include: toxic substances in the food chain; acids and heavy metals in snow and ice and the possible consequences to arctic ecology following snow melt; the Antarctic ozone hole; climate change and its effect on the northern hemisphere; climate and global sea levels; exploitation of minerals and fossil fuels; and future impacts from industrialization of the North.