Atlantic Ocean contains 200,000 barrels of radioactive waste

A scientific expedition in the Northeast Atlantic has revealed that over 200,000 barrels of radioactive waste, discarded during the second half of the 20th century, are resting at depths of approximately 4,700 meters. Using the research vessel ‘Pourquoi Pas?’ and the manned submersible ‘Nautile’, scientists conducted 20 dives to observe the site closely for the first time.

The mission identified many containers in advanced states of corrosion, with some barrels already leaking material into the surrounding seabed sediment. Researchers detected radionuclides, including cobalt-60, at concentrations higher than naturally expected in the area. While marine organisms such as anemones, sponges, and crabs have colonized the barrels—effectively turning them into artificial islands—the long-term impact on the food chain remains uncertain.

Further analysis is required to determine the exact origin of the leaked substances and the full extent of the ecological consequences. The waste was originally disposed of in the ocean without being designed for permanent long-term storage.