The Influence of anthropogenic impact on the ecological state of water bodies of the Solovetsky Archipelago

The Solovetsky Archipelago is a unique complex that combines a rich natural heritage and significant historical sites, espesially the Solovetsky Monastery, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Recent years the archipelago has been experiencing increased anthropogenic influence which has a negative impact on its ecological balance. Pollution of water bodies is a particularly relevant problem. The main sources of pollution are domestic wastewater generated due to the economic facilities functioning and the vital activity of the village of Solovetsky population and small fleet used for transport purposes and the organization of tourist excursions. Currently, the available data on the chemical composition of water in various water bodies of the Solovetsky Archipelago are scattered and not always comparable. Systematic and comprehensive studies using unified methods are needed to obtain a complete and objective picture of the archipelago’s water bodies ecological state. Therefore, the aim of the work is to assess the effect of anthropogenic impact on the ecological state of the Solovetsky Archipelago waters based on available data systematization. It has been established that the unsatisfactory condition of natural water bodies in the area of the village of Solovetsky is the consequence of natural biological processes, aggravated by the constant discharge of untreated wastewater and the economic facilities functioning used in the social infrastructure of the village of Solovetsky and its surroundings. The reason for the situation can be considered the lack of an effective wastewater treatment system. At the same time, increased tourist flow exacerbates the situation cause of creating an exessive burden on ecosystems during the summer season.