Pollution and Climatic Influence on Trees in the Siberian Arctic Wetlands

Siberian Arctic wetlands located within the planetary “warming hotspot” experience pronounced climate-driven vegetation cover changes. Together with warming, wetlands, which are influence of Norilsk copper and nickel industry (69.35° N, 88.12° E), have been strongly influenced by industrial pollutions (sulfur dioxide mostly) since 1940s. In addition, petroleum products release occurred in 2020 that potentially vigor. We studied combined effect climate warming pollution on larch (Larix sibirica Ledeb.) shrubs’ (Salix spp. alder, Duschekia fruticosa) growth. Using satellite data (MODIS Sentinel) processing, we mapped study area. used on-ground survey, applied dendrochronology, variables, emissions rate analysis. sampled woods (kerns) and, based tree ring analysis, generated trees shrubs growth index (GI) chronologies. analyzed SO2 eco-climate variables (air temperatures, precipitation, soil moisture, drought SPEI) GI. GPP NPP (gross net primary productivity) NDVI temporal trends these indexes MODIS-derived products. found chronic led to GI decrease was followed mortality, observed until end 1990. Since beginning 2000s, has increased, is correlated elevated air temperature season prolongation, whereas excessive moisture negatively that, increasing (GPP, NPP, NDVI) were part wetland zone former trees’ heavy damage mortality. The began mostly 2003–2005 caused volume together resistant species’ (willows, graminoids, bushes, birch) invasion. suggested productivity might partly be attributed nitrogen fertilization NOx emissions. Finally, diesel fuel spill happened no larch, some aquatic species (mosses damaged.