The polar bear lost the title of the most toxic mammal in the Arctic region to the killer whales, also known as Orcas, a new study carried out by the WWF (World Wildlife Foundation) concluded.

This also means that they are likely to be one of the most contaminated groups of animals on the planet, because the Arctic, perceived by most people to be the epitome of pristine environments, is severely polluted by hazardous man-made chemicals, like PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyl), pesticides and a brominated flame retardant.

"Killer whales can be regarded as indicators of the health of our marine environment. The high levels of contaminants are very alarming and clearly show that the arctic seas are not as clean as they should be, which particularly affects animals at the top of the food chain," Dr Hans Wolkers, a researcher with the NPI (Norwegian Polar Institute) said.

According to a WWF press release, the appearance of a potentially dangerous brominated flame retardant in the killer whales is of particular concern, because, unlike PCBs and the most harmful pesticides, many hazardous brominated flame retardants are not currently banned. Brominated flame retardants can affect mammals' neurological function, behavior and reproduction.

"This research re-confirms that the Arctic is now a chemical sink. Chemicals from products that we use in our homes every day are contaminating arctic wildlife," Colin Butfield, leader of WWF-UK's Chemicals and Health Campaign said.

The findings dramatically underline the need for strong EU legislation to control chemicals. Tomorrow, a key meeting of European ministers will decide what form this legislation, called REACH, takes, but pressure from the chemicals industry may lead to REACH becoming so watered-down that it does not protect either human health or the environment.