Centennial records of lead contamination in northern Atlantic bivalves (Arctica islandica)

► We measure Pb/Ca ratios in Arctica islandica shells from three sites in the North Atlantic. ► We provide centennial records of lead pollution and discuss location specific lead sources. ► Lead concentrations in the Icelandic shell reflect natural influxes of lead into Icelandic waters. ► In comparison, the lead profile of the US shell is driven by anthropogenic lead emissions. ► In contrast, the lead profile of the European shell is dominantly driven by local sources of lead.