More than 80 years after World War II, coastal communities in the Solomon Islands are facing a hidden and growing threat as thousands of unexploded bombs and munitions continue to decay, releasing toxic chemicals into land, water and fragile coastal ecosystems.
This project led by scientists from The University of Queensland (UQ) has found that as the metal casings corrode, they leach heavy metals and explosive compounds into the environment, posing increasing risks to human health.
Dr Stacey Pizzino from the School of Public Health, who led the project at UQ, said the danger is intensifying as the ordnance continues to break down.
“The health risk from World War II bombs is growing as the ordnance decays and releases heavy metals into the environment,” Dr Pizzino said.
“Communities are already reporting illnesses that may be linked to exposure to these toxins.”
The landmark Environmental Impact Assessment is the first study in the Pacific to investigate how aging wartime explosives contaminate surrounding ecosystems. Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funded by the Government of Japan, the research detected elevated levels of arsenic, lead, cadmium and mercury at affected sites, as well as explosive compounds such as TNT and PETN.
The findings provide critical evidence to inform policy, risk management and future remediation planning across the Pacific. They also underscore the long‑term environmental and health legacy of World War II for island nations where unexploded ordnance remains widespread.
UQ International Development supported the delivery of the study, working alongside the team of UQ experts and UNDP to enable effective project coordination and implementation. This collaboration reflects UQ’s commitment to partnerships that address real-world environmental challenges and support people and community safety in the Pacific.
Watch UNDP Danger in Paradise: The Toxic Legacy of War in the Solomon Islands
Related news on UQ-led project
- Decaying WWII bombs leak toxic chemicals into Solomon islands food source, ABC Radio.
- Decaying World War II bombs in Solomon Islands releasing toxic chemicals, new research finds, UNDP Pacific Office.
- UXO research conducted in Central Islands province, The Island Sun (Solomon Islands daily newspaper).
- New global study: long after war, injuries from landmines and explosives kill nearly 4 in 10 victims, The Conversation.
