#polar bear extinction risk

[dyanamic]

Discover the challenges polar bears face as climate change, habitat loss, and dwindling sea ice push them closer to extinction. Learn about their fight for survival and efforts to protect these iconic Arctic creatures.

[overdoso]

“A perda de gelo marinho significa que os ursos passam menos tempo caçando focas e mais tempo jejuando em terra”, diz Louise Archer, pós-doutoranda da Universidade de Toronto em Scarborough e principal autora do estudo. 🌎

[bsenvs3000w25]

Blog #5- Understanding and Addressing Climate Change

Hi everyone,

Welcome to my week 5 blog post!

This week, I will explore the significant impacts of climate change on our planet and its effects on ecosystems, biodiversity, and the future of life on Earth.

What is climate change?

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These changes can be natural, such as those caused by volcanic eruptions or they can be human-driven, primarily due to burning fossil fuels. According to the United Nations, since the 1800s, human activity has been the main driver behind the effects of climate change. You may wonder why burning fossil fuels has such a significant impact on our Earth. Burning fossil fuels generates greenhouse gas emissions, which trap the sun's heat and lead to rising global temperatures. Carbon dioxide is the most abundant greenhouse gas emitted by human activity. Sources of these emissions include energy production (such as burning oil, coal, and gas), agriculture, and transportation.

Fun Fact: Did you know that CO2 emissions are the highest they have ever been in the past 2 million years, reaching 420 parts per million (ppm)?

Climate Change and Its Impact on the Earth

Climate change is an ongoing issue that affects our planet in numerous ways. The increased levels of greenhouse gases lead to more frequent and intense weather events, such as storms, floods, extreme heat, droughts, severe cold, and heavy snowfall. Additionally, we are witnessing the effects of ocean acidification as the oceans absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, resulting in a drop in pH and putting marine life at risk. You may have noticed these changes in your area. I remember when I was younger, we used to experience much more snow than we do now in the winter!

Climate Change's Impact on Wildlife

Climate change has a significant impact on wildlife threatening many species around the world. Rising temperatures alter vegetation and food sources, forcing animals to migrate beyond their native habitats in search of more suitable conditions. This increases the risk of extinction for many species. Additionally, the growing intensity of extreme weather events has led to significant habitat destruction and loss of life among wildlife populations.

One species that is severely affected by climate change is the polar bear. These animals depend on sea ice for mating, resting and hunting for seals, their primary food source. However, as arctic temperatures rise and ice continues to melt, polar bears must travel greater distances to find food, leading to malnutrition and low reproduction rates. 

Scientists predict that by 2050, two-thirds of the world's polar bear population could disappear.

Graph of changes in arctic sea ice over time

What Can We Do to Help?

There are many ways to reduce your carbon footprint and protect our future and our planet's future:

- Use public transit - Carpool - Bike or walk for shorter trips - Recycle and compost - Choose sustainable brands - Planting trees - Use renewable energy

In some cases, it can be difficult to reduce our carbon footprint. Some people may be unable to make specific changes, so it's important to recognize that. For example, if you work far from home, you might need to drive your car to work every day. Switching to solar, wind, or hydropower can be costly and unrealistic for some families. However, small actions, such as recycling, composting, minimizing waste, and choosing more eco-friendly brands, can also be just as effective in reducing our carbon footprint.

Questions for further discussion:

What was the most interesting thing you learned from my post?

What actions would you take to mitigate climate change?

Thanks for reading!

Biona🦋🌸🐻‍❄️

References: Ayesha Tandon, R. P. (2022, December 8). Polar bears and climate change: What does the science say?. Carbon Brief. https://interactive.carbonbrief.org/polar-bears-climate-change-what-does-science-say/index.html 

United Nations. What is climate change?. United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/what-is-climate-change 

Ocean acidification | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2020, April 1). https://www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/ocean-coasts/ocean-acidification 

[lesbiansandgayssupporttheminers]

Unfortunately, I truly believe that I will see polar bears become extinct in my lifetime. The only thing that can save them is rapid action to stop global temperature increases and preserve winter arctic sea ice.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from EcoWatch:

Global heating is predicted to lower the period of sea ice extent on Canada’s Hudson Bay, shortening the hunting season for its roughly 1,700 resident polar bears, reported Springer.

According to a new study, if global temperatures increase to more than 2.1 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, the length of most of Hudson Bay’s ice-free period could be longer than the polar bears normally fast, threatening their survival.

May is normally an ice-covered month for Hudson Bay, but, according to NASA’s National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC), this year was the lowest sea ice extent for the month since satellite records began in 1979.

“It’s a very unusual situation,” said Andrew Derocher, a polar bear biologist with the University of Alberta, as Reuters reported. “There are fewer bears in eastern Hudson Bay, but there is much less known about where they come from.”

Hudson Bay and the surrounding area is home to three of the 19 remaining polar bear populations in the world.

Unlike the Arctic, Hudson Bay completely thaws during the summer months, leading polar bears to fast while they await the return of the ice, which they need to hunt their main prey: seals.

“Hudson Bay has warmed over 1°C in the last 30 years. Coincident with this warming, seasonal patterns have shifted, with the spring sea ice melting earlier and the fall freeze-up occurring later, leading to a month longer of ice-free conditions. This extended ice-free period presents a significant challenge for polar bears, as it restricts their hunting opportunities for seals and their ability to accumulate the necessary body weight for successful reproduction,” the authors wrote in the study.

[rabbitcruiser]

International Polar Bear Day

Polar bears are furry and majestic beasts that roam across the cold Arctic ice. However, in the past few decades, sea ice in the Arctic has been melting at an alarmingly fast rate, leading the polar ice cap to shrink over time. Because of this, polar bears have been losing their habitats, their sources of food and, ultimately, dying from starvation and exhaustion.

International Polar Bear Day aims to raise awareness of the issues threatening these creatures and encourage change.

Why polar bears are the perfect Arctic animal

Polar bears are the apex predators of the Arctic, perfectly adapted to the icy landscape and ocean. It’s thought that they diverged from the brown bear as far back as 6 million years ago – as they moved north, they gradually evolved to brave the formidable polar conditions.

With their thick fur and ample body fat providing plenty of insulation, along with their small ears and tails minimizing heat loss, these ice bears are often more at risk of overheating than they are of freezing! Pair this with their large, padded paws, which turn them into powerful swimmers as well as proficient Arctic explorers, able to spread their weight on thin ice and grip onto the slippery surface, and it’s no wonder these marine mammals dominate the food chain.

Polar bears are spread across the Arctic Ocean, from Alaska in the west to Russia in the east and with around two thirds found in Canada. They mainly eat seals, which they catch either by creeping up on them while they rest on the ice or more commonly through a method known as ‘still-hunting’, in which they lie in wait besides seals�� breathing holes, poised for their dinner to appear.

The Inuit and other Arctic peoples have a close relationship with these magnificent bears, showing them great respect in both their culture and their hunting techniques. Legends and folk tales depict the nanuq (the Inuit term for polar bear) as a wise and spiritual being with an affinity to humans. And when it comes to hunting, they make use of almost all parts of the bear for food, clothes, fuel and medicine, meaning nothing goes to waste.

History of International Polar Bear Day

Organized by Polar Bears International, International Polar Bear Day aims to raise awareness of the plight of polar bears and the threats they face, including disruption to denning and the effects of climate change.

Commercial activities such as oil and gas exploration, shipping, mining and tourism have been affecting the polar bear’s habitat and ability to survive, in particular by encroaching on the terrain that mother bears use to build dens and raise their cubs.

Alongside these industries competing for precious space in the Arctic, the polar ice cap on which the bears depend is also melting due to climate change. They live off of the sea ice, relying on it for hunting, traveling, breeding and denning. And it’s vital that they maintain sufficient fat reserves to protect against the cold. Depleted sea ice affects both their food source and their habitat, increasing the risk of starvation and making it harder to raise cubs.

As a result of these developments, polar bears have been classed as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which means this beautiful species could decline by over a third within three generations and is potentially at risk of extinction if temperatures continue to increase.

International Polar Bear Day is therefore all about conservation. To celebrate, people take the time to learn about polar bears, their ecosystem and how our actions have been harming their existence. They also pledge to reduce their carbon footprint and to speak with others about the effects that climate change has on polar bears.

International Polar Bear Day Timeline

1774 Polar Bears are first documented

The first to describe the existence of a Polar Bear, Constantine John Phipps makes a report about his trip to the North Pole the previous year.

2004 Oldest Polar Bear fossil is found

Considered to be more than 100,000 years old, the jawbone fossil of a Polar Bear is found on Prince Charles Foreland, which is an island in Norway.

2008 Polar Bears are listed as threatened

As their habitat on the icy seas continues to melt, Polar Bears are considered threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

2011 First International Polar Bear Day is Observed

In an effort to encourage raising awareness of the plight of these threatened animals, International Polar Bear Day is created.

2014 University of Saskatchewan commits to helping Polar Bears

In honor of International Polar Bear Day, the University of Saskatchewan commits to turning their thermostats up two degrees in the summer and down two degrees in the winter to do their part to limit global warming and save the Polar Bears.

How to celebrate International Polar Bear Day

We can all do our bit to help protect these vulnerable creatures and ensure that they thrive. To celebrate this special day, why not donate some money to the Polar Bears International organization to help fund its research into polar bears and their conservation? You can also choose to adopt a polar bear, either for yourself or a loved one, through organizations such as the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

If you’re lucky enough to live near one, visit a local zoo or polar bear sanctuary to get up close and personal with these amazing animals. These kinds of organizations also contribute to conservation and research, for example by caring for orphaned cubs, so it’s great to support them and their efforts. And any intrepid explorers out there can even encounter polar bears in the wild through careful and considerate ecotourism opportunities.

Polar Bears International hosts various live events in the run-up to and on International Polar Bear Day, so check out their website to see what’s on offer. You can also make use of their polar bear tracker, which allows you to follow real-life bears as they make their way across the Arctic landscape.

With climate change posing one of the biggest threats to wildlife and people everywhere, International Polar Bear Day is also a great time to commit to lifestyle changes that will benefit the planet and all its inhabitants. Talk with your friends, family and colleagues about what climate change is and share some facts you’ve learned about how it affects polar bears. Help reduce your carbon footprint by recycling more, using less water, bicycling to work or buying items from environmentally friendly companies.

Together, we can all work to create a brighter future for polar bears.

International Polar Bear Day FAQs

What is International Polar Bear Day?

Created to raise awareness about the plight of polar bears and their conservation status. The day encourages individuals to consider their impact on the planet to minimize the effect of global warming on these beautiful polar bears.

Are Polar Bears endangered?

Polar Bears were categorized as “threatened” on the endangered species list in May 2008, due to the fact that global warming is causing their frozen habitat to be limited in size and seasons.

When is International Polar Bear Day?

February 27 is celebrated as International Polar Bear Day each year.

Are Polar Bears dangerous?

While they are not inherently vicious, Polar Bears are large enough to see humans as a threat or as an option for food. Plus, as their frozen habitat is diminishing, they may spend more time on land and be attracted to places where humans reside.

How can I help Polar Bears?

With the knowledge the Polar Bears are at risk, many people wonder how to help. Feel free to join an event, help raise awareness, sign a petition and help reduce climate change.

Source

[warcrimecryptid]

The ConocoPhillips’ Willow Project will deter the Biden Administration from achieving their environmental targets. This means that it will be next to impossible for the United States to achieve 50% of emission reductions by 2030 if the ConocoPhillips’ Willow Project is to be approved.

The Arctic area is warming at a significantly faster rate than anywhere else in the world. The arctic is home to many animals, some of which are already endangered and at severe risk of going extinct. So let me paint a picture for you:

Polar bears. The coco cola mascot. A roided out freak of nature. Due to global warming and other issues, they are becoming increasingly more familiar with humans. Humans are now entering the food chain of these starving animals. There have been numerous attacks in recent years and studies show that polar bears are starting to seek humans out in predation. Polar bears are not deterred by bear mace or electric bear fences. In colder, Arctic climates, people are told not to go out hiking in small groups. Why? Think about it. Polar bears kill sea lions and other large animals. Do you really think that two people are going to intimidate an animal that hunts other 1,000 pound animals? No. And if you do think that, then you’re stupid. Now, Is this the polar bears fault? No. It’s our fault. We are killing these animals and taking away their homes and food sources. They had to pick other options in order to survive. Do you want to keep the polar bears far away from you?

Then stop the Willow project. Fight back. Unionize, March, and petition against these issues. Do not be complicit in the destruction of our only earth. Your silence makes you complicit. Do everything you can. Fight and fight dirty. Am I calling for a complete insurrection? Yes. Am I calling for a coup? Also yes. Am I a little unhinged? Absolutely. But I’m not silent. Your silence is cowardice. Do not complain about the state of the world when you’ve done nothing to contribute to changing it. Silence is surrender. If you must go, go loudly.

Sign the petition at Change.org.

[medium5]

Raises my hand can I ask Pasted questions. You said polar bears don't really exist in pastex; are they extinct or are they just too far away from where pastex takes place to be relevant to stuff like llama decorations. Also related question Pastex takes place a while after nuclear fallout right. Does that still have relevant effects on agriculture and how people interact with the environment by the time the story takes place? That second one is kinda broad and vague so if you have a good answer that's fine I'm just curious

Polar bears are still alive and well!! But the Pastex story is in Chile/Argentina, so while antarctic animals might have migrated closer to them, arctic animals like polar bears are still way up north.

As for agriculture,,, So as u said its sorta post-post-apocalyptic. The effects of agriculture at this point arent so much impacted by the fallout- through magic scifi means Koro has a way to severely lessen the radiation of certain areas (like what they did w/ Montaldea)- but instead it's just the nuclear winter that messes w/ it. ArgenChile can already get p cold in sother parts, but it's basically winter all year long even in the northwestern parts (where Koro and most other settlements are)

Livestock are kept incedibly secure in indoor facilities. They have a high risk of both being stolen and of just. dying from the cold. so it's Really hard to get permission to enter one.

Greenhouses and farms aren't so securely protected, and some people have their own! Summer vegetables have mostly died out, but theres loads of cold-hardy ones. Apparently some even taste Better in freezing temperatures. Like spinach. I love spinach.

Anyway. Theres lots of plants that have mostly died out, but have strains that survived. Like the modern wheat we have is gone, but winter wheat still exists as thrives!

Also! Peque isn't just a cool steed, I specifically chose llamas as the main beast of burden because of! everything! and bcs I like them.

They have a better resistance to cold and are adept at climbing mountais. like the Andes. They've been used to ride and carry luggage for a while already- the main problem is they're smaller and weaker than horses, but selective breeding and "I'm the author I can do whatever I want" fixes that ^.^

Sorry I was kinda all over the place w/ this answer lol. If u want me to go more in-depth with anything lmk ^.^

[xlntwtch2]

11/29/23 ..AP News...

"....Across most of the U.S., wolverines were wiped out by the early 1900s from unregulated trapping and poisoning campaigns. About 300 surviving animals in the contiguous U.S. live in fragmented, isolated groups at high elevations in the northern Rocky Mountains.

Wolverines join a growing number of animals, plants and insects — from polar bears in Alaska to crocodiles in southern Florida — that officials say are at growing risk as increasing temperatures bake the planet, altering snowfall patterns and raising sea levels...."

"...The animals resemble small bears and are the world’s largest species of terrestrial weasels. Sometimes called “mountain devils,” they thrive in harsh alpine environments.

"...Republican lawmakers in Montana had urged the administration to delay its decision, claiming the scientists’ estimates were too inaccurate to make a fair call about the dangers faced by wolverines. The lawmakers, led by hard-right conservative Rep. Matt Rosendale, warned that protections could lead to future restrictions on activities allowed in wolverine habitats, including snowmobiling and skiing...."

[marksbear]

Hi Papa Bear! How are you feeling? Being back home must feel so nice! I was just wondering if you could give us some more bear facts?? Pretty please 🙏

I hope that you're alright! Sending you hugs!

Hello! I'm feeling just fine, but how are you? It feels great being finally home! I am more than happy to share Bear facts with you!

Okay so starting off, Bears care deeply about family members. They will risk their lives and even fight to the death in order to save a cub or sibling from danger.

Even though While they are usually solitary animals, mothers and cubs are always together.

Black Bears are the only two bear species not facing the threat of global extinction.

Asiatic black bears ( Or called Moon Bears) are most famous for walking on two legs. They can maintain an upright posture for even a quarter mile or more.

Male bears sometimes kill cubs adult males sometimes kill and eat cubs. Sometimes just to eat. or survive other times just for fun.

If grizzly and polar bears mate (more like once in a blue moon( the resultant offspring is known as prizzly or grolar.

Polar bears are extremely patient animals. They use this skill when hunting, where they can wait beside a breathing hole on the ice for hours.

Sadly that's all I can think of now! Thank you for asking me about facts!

[climatechangereview]

Understanding the Environmental Impacts of Climate Change and Global Warming

Climate change, driven largely by global warming, is one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time. Its impacts are far-reaching, affecting ecosystems, human health, and the overall stability of the planet. In this blog, we explore the critical Environmental Impacts of Climate Change and how global warming intensifies these challenges.

What is Climate Change?

Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other elements of the Earth's climate system. While natural factors like volcanic eruptions and solar cycles have historically influenced climate, human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes, have accelerated this change.

Global Warming: The Driving Force

Global warming, a primary aspect of climate change, refers to the rise in Earth's average surface temperature due to the increased concentration of greenhouse gases (GHGs) like carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), human-induced global warming has already reached approximately 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels.

Environmental Impacts of Climate Change

1. Rising Sea Levels

As global temperatures rise, polar ice caps and glaciers melt, contributing to higher sea levels. Thermal expansion of seawater also exacerbates this problem. Coastal areas around the world face increased flooding, erosion, and habitat loss, threatening millions of people and biodiversity.

Example: Countries like the Maldives and Bangladesh are experiencing severe risks from rising sea levels, with potential displacement of communities.

2. Extreme Weather Events

Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including hurricanes, heatwaves, droughts, and heavy rainfall.

Hurricanes and Typhoons: Warmer oceans provide more energy for these storms, leading to greater destruction.

Heatwaves: Intensified by global warming, prolonged heat events pose serious health risks and can damage crops.

Droughts and Flooding: Regions like sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia face severe water shortages and flooding, impacting agriculture and livelihoods.

3. Loss of Biodiversity

Climate change disrupts habitats and ecosystems, leading to the extinction of numerous plant and animal species. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affect migration, breeding, and feeding behaviors.

Arctic Wildlife: Polar bears and seals are losing their icy habitats due to melting glaciers.

Coral Reefs: Ocean warming and acidification bleach coral reefs, endangering marine life.

4. Ocean Acidification

The oceans absorb about 30% of CO2 emissions, resulting in chemical changes that lower the pH of seawater. This acidification affects marine ecosystems, particularly shell-forming organisms like corals, mollusks, and some plankton species.

5. Impact on Freshwater Resources

Changes in precipitation patterns lead to altered river flows and reduced availability of freshwater. Glaciers, which provide drinking water for millions, are rapidly disappearing.

Case Study: The Himalayan glaciers, often referred to as the "Third Pole," are melting, affecting water supplies for South Asian countries.

6. Shifts in Agricultural Productivity

Global warming alters growing seasons, disrupts pollination patterns, and increases the prevalence of pests and diseases. While some regions may benefit from longer growing seasons, others face severe declines in crop yields.

Example: Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia are already experiencing food insecurity due to reduced agricultural productivity.

7. Forest Degradation and Wildfires

Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts increase the frequency and severity of wildfires, destroying vast areas of forests. This not only impacts biodiversity but also reduces carbon sequestration capacity, further accelerating climate change.

Example: Wildfires in California, Australia, and the Amazon rainforest have highlighted the devastating consequences of climate change.

Mitigating Climate Change and Global Warming

While the environmental impacts of Climate Change Review are severe, there are actionable steps that individuals, communities, and governments can take to mitigate its effects:

Transition to Renewable Energy:

Shift from fossil fuels to solar, wind, and hydroelectric power to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Promote Energy Efficiency:

Encourage the use of energy-efficient appliances, buildings, and vehicles.

Reforestation and Afforestation:

Planting trees helps absorb CO2, restoring ecosystems and biodiversity.

Sustainable Agriculture:

Adopt practices like crop rotation, organic farming, and precision agriculture to minimize emissions and enhance resilience.

Policy Interventions:

Governments must enforce regulations to limit industrial emissions and invest in green technologies.

Raise Awareness:

Educating communities about the environmental impacts of climate change encourages collective action.

A Global Responsibility

Addressing the environmental impacts of climate change requires global cooperation. International agreements like the Paris Accord aim to limit global warming to 1.5°C by reducing emissions and enhancing adaptive capacities.

Conclusion

The environmental impacts of climate change, driven by Global Warming Climate Change, threaten the very fabric of life on Earth. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, and other effects underscore the urgency of collective action. By adopting sustainable practices, transitioning to renewable energy, and fostering global collaboration, we can mitigate these impacts and pave the way for a more resilient planet.

Let us act today for a better tomorrow. Together, we can combat climate change and protect our environment for future generations.

[msdenvs3000f24]

Unit 9

This week, I’ve been missing the familiar sight of a family of Turkey Vultures on my commute to work since they left on their migration a few weeks ago. Personally, I think that migration is one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena. How so many species experience the same instinctive drive that pushes them to travel thousands of kilometres across land, air, and sea. I feel this powerful journey showcases the resilience, endurance, and adaptability of countless species. From the high-flying bar-headed geese scaling the Himalayas to the mass movements of monarch butterflies fluttering from Canada to Mexico, migrations knit ecosystems together, dispersing nutrients, supporting predators, and connecting habitats across vast distances.

Perhaps one of the most iconic migrations is that of the wildebeest in East Africa. Each year, over a million wildebeest, alongside zebras and antelopes, trek a circuit spanning over 1,200 miles across the Serengeti and Masai Mara. Their movement follows rainfall patterns, ensuring they find fresh grass to graze. As they migrate, they face countless perils – from crocodile-infested rivers to prowling lions. Despite these dangers, their collective movement fuels an entire ecosystem, supporting predators, scavengers, and even the soils and plant life they leave behind.

In the ocean, migrations can be even more astonishing. Humpback whales, for example, embark on some of the longest journeys of any mammal, swimming up to 5,000 miles from their summer feeding grounds in polar regions to warmer tropical waters, where they breed and give birth. Salmon, too, undertake epic voyages from the sea back to the rivers where they were born. Driven by instinct, they navigate through fresh and saltwater, using Earth’s magnetic field and even their sense of smell to find their way. Their journey supports bears, birds, and entire river ecosystems, bringing nutrients from the ocean back inland.

A picture of a common tern I took while visiting Nova Scotia over the summer.

Even on a smaller scale, migrations can be incredible. Take the red crabs on Christmas Island, which, by the millions, make a synchronized migration from the forests to the coast to lay their eggs in the ocean. This spectacle is so monumental that roads are closed to allow the crabs safe passage. And then there’s the awe-inspiring monarch butterfly migration, a multigenerational journey spanning thousands of miles. Monarchs east of the Rockies migrate to a small mountainous region in central Mexico, where they cluster by the millions in the oyamel fir forests to survive the winter. This incredible migration is unique among insects and is fuelled by an innate sense of direction that scientists are still working to fully understand.

Unfortunately, over a fifth of the world’s migratory species are not at risk of extinction (Ogutu, 2024). Currently, under the UN’s ‘Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals’ 1189 of the 4508 species classified as migratory are listed as endangered. This has been largely attributed to habitat disruption or destruction by humans, both in their migration and non-migration ranges. Therefore, I’ve taken this week’s post as an opportunity to share a little about migration in the hopes that those reading may think more deeply into the ways we impact the spaces of the animals around us.

Migration is a story of survival, driven by ancient instincts and refined by evolution. It shows how closely connected all life is, how the needs of one species can influence entire ecosystems. Migration is a reminder of the deep-rooted drive to endure, thrive, and adapt, no matter the distance, hardship, or danger. For many species, migration is not just a journey but a way of life, a pattern that’s shaped by forces as old as the Earth itself. And as we learn more about these migrations, we gain new appreciation for the interconnectedness of the natural world and the incredible feats of endurance life is capable of.

---

References

Ogutu, J. (2024, February 12). Migrating animals face collapsing numbers – major new UN report. The Conversation. http://theconversation.com/migrating-animals-face-collapsing-numbers-major-new-un-report-223115

[nedsecondline]

Polar bears face higher risk of disease in a warming Arctic

THE AGE OF EXTINCTION As the Arctic warms, polar bears face a growing risk of contracting viruses, bacteria and parasites that they were less likely …Polar bears face higher risk of disease in a warming Arctic

[wakeupcallonclimatechange]

(2) Melting Ice Caps and Rising Sea Levels: The Earth’s ice caps are melting, and they’re causing the sea levels to rise, it puts the Philippines at a great risk since we are an archipelago and there could be a big chance that in the future if we do not do anything to help save the Earth, most parts of the Philippines we know now, will be submerged underwater. Meanwhile in the arctic region, Polar bears are also at risk of extinction since their natural habitat is now changing due to global warming. This perfectly portrays our interconnectedness with nature.

For more in-depth information, please visit: https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/scitech/science/861077/how-is-the-philippines-affected-by-melting-glaciers-due-to-climate-change/story/

[whatsonmedia]

4 Ways To Do Your Bit For The Planet

All things environment and the perils of our planet are very much topical in the news at the moment. The world is being deeply affected by things like Carbon Emissions and Global warming. We are seeing this through warmer summers and longer Winters. There is less ice in Antarctica than ever before with the polar bears being put at risk because of this. Animals and their habitats are in danger, forests are being destroyed. Something needs to be done. The government and many businesses have taken action by charging for carrier bags in the shops to discourage the use of single time plastic bags. Shops are now selling reusable bags with a variety of prints coming in lots of different styles to appeal to the consumer. Restaurants are changing from plastic cutlery and straws for takeaway into paper and wood, so that they can become more eco-friendly with biodegradable products that are better for the planet. We’ve seen Greta Thunberg take a stand and become famous for saving the planet. We’ve seen the Extinction rebellion activists  lay in roads and throw food at paintings in protest for the environment. It is something that has been talked about a lot often with some controversy. The big question for many people is what's the deal and what can we do to help the planet in our everyday lives. Last month was World Earth Day, but awareness doesn’t stop there. We all need to do our bit to help save the planet. WhatsonUK has curated 4 little changes you can make in your everyday life to help the planet! 1. A summer time walk or cycle Image credits: Pixabay An easy fix that’s not only good for the planet but good for you! Get on your bike or walk short distances instead of driving to work/ school or to socialize to help reduce your carbon footprint. You can also save money on the petrol as there are lots of deals on public transport. If the weather is a bit gloomy (after all this is Britain!) you can get the bus or train as an alternative as this is a small change that is better for the climate! It is really easy to plan your journey with public transport by booking on the trainline app or the National Express website. There is so much to see with Birmingham having beautiful outdoor spaces to explore as well like The Botanical Gardens, so whilst you’re commuting take a look around. This can be really good for your mind! 2 Shopping Image credits: Pixabay Make better choices in the shops to help save the planet. This can be a really quick fix by just being mindful when choosing items like fish for example checking on the packaging that it is sustainably sourced. Try to get free range items too when you can!  Lots of shops are now offering food items with minimal packaging or packaging that is biodegradable that can be recycled. For fashion, make sure to go to sustainable brands or charity shops for your clothes. Fast fashion isn’t the best for the planet! You can find some really unique pieces in charity shops! Another big thing to try is shopping at smaller businesses like ones on Etsy or Ebay as they are creating less carbon emissions as they are functioning on a smaller scale therefore you are able to be a fashionista style icon and a planet saver. 3. Reuse and recycle Image credits: Pixabay When it comes to cleaning products lots of companies including M&S are offering a service where you can recycle your old containers and also get refillable items so that you can reuse the original packaging. Lots of beauty companies offer this service too like L'occitane for example you can get a percentage of the product free incorporated within the cost of the original product if you buy the refilled to refill your original bottle. Don’t forget that lots of big chain coffee shops offer discounts if you bring in a reusable coffee cup, so you can enjoy your favorite treats, save money and save the planet all at the same time! 4. Water bottles and Tupperware Image credits: Pixabay Instead of buying bottled water from the supermarket, save some of that well earnt cash and invest in a reusable water bottle or cup, so you don’t have to keep buying water. Nowadays there are lots of cute prints and shapes of bottles, so there will definitely be something to suit your style or aesthetic. Stanley cups are very popular right now. Primark and B&M are selling dupes of these! Using reusable tupperware instead of foil or cling film when preparing your lunch is a good way to cut costs and to reduce your waste. For more information on how you can get involved with climate change and environment fight visit … Read the full article

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Polar Bears at Risk: Study Highlights Climate Change Impact

A new study has raised alarming concerns about the future of polar bear populations, suggesting that they are facing a greater risk of extinction than ever before due to the prolonged Arctic summers caused by climate change. The research, led by scientists studying the effects of diminishing sea ice in the Arctic, underscores the critical importance of addressing environmental challenges to…