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In addition to these considerations in evaluating the extent 

 caused by radioactive contamination in the Arctic, any analysis 

 of the potential Impact of such radiation on human populations 

 such as the Inuit would require consideration of the dose of 

 radiation likely to be received by both an "average" and a 

 "maximum exposed individual." In all likelihood, the Inuit could 

 represent the "maximum exposed liuiividual . " In addition, the 

 population of individuals likely to be affected, by living near 

 the coast or consuming Arctic marine seafood, is an important 

 consideration in evaluating the risk posed by the contamination. 



As you cem see, while EPA does have some data about behavior 

 of radionuclides released into the marine environment, we know 

 little about the specific contamination in the Arctic. However, 

 we do know the kinds of information that need to be collected to 

 assess the risks from Arctic pollution. Much more Information 

 needs to be gathered in order to fully gauge the risk posed to 

 humeui beings and the environment by the activities of the former 

 Soviet Union. 



Current and proposed EPA agtivitiag i-«%nn;lT.tT r.o Argtiie 

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EPA is conducting several additional activities designed to 

 further our understanding of Arctic contamination. EPA does not 

 have sufficient data about the concentrations of radionuclides 

 arising from various activities of the former Soviet Union. 

 Potential sources include disposed reactor vessels and waste 

 drums, aerial transport of resuspended radionuclides, axid 



