How can you help polar bears?

Hi everyone! Today is International Polar Bear Day! It is appropriate then to make this blog all about these charismatic marine mammals! Today we’ll learn some cool facts about polar bears, the challenges they are facing, and how we can help!

You might be wondering, marine mammal? Yes, it's true polar bears are considered marine mammals. Typically when we think of marine mammals we think of whales or seals. Polar bears are considered marine mammals because they do live in for the most part marine environment. They are known to be great swimmers. They have even been nicked-named sea bears. They need the sea ice to survive. Polar bears in the wild can live to about 15-18 years although some older than that have been tagged. When they reach adulthood can weigh up to 1,300 lbs for males and up to 650 lbs for females. Females can have 1-3 cubs and twins are most commonly observed. They are typically found to live in arctic waters which include Alaska (US), Canada, Russia, Greenland, and Norway (Svalbard). Their main source of food is seals. Polar bears are very charismatic and loved arctic animals but they are facing challenges.

Polar bears are considered vulnerable due to the loss of sea ice. The main threat is the warming temperature from climate change with only about 26,000 polar bears left in the wild. Warming temperatures are mainly caused by the increase in greenhouse gases (GHGs), typically from the burning of fossil fuels. Polar bears have been known as iconic characters used by major companies like Coca-Cola, which would seem ironic since they produce lots of GHGs and create plastic. I thought so too, so I did some research. Upon looking at their website I was surprised to find their commitment to lower their emissions by setting an ambitious goal of 25% lower emissions by 2030 and net zero by 2050. They also are working to collect their plastic bottles to recycle them and eventually want their bottles to be made of plants. They also work with the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) to help with polar bear conservation. While Coca-Cola is not perfect it’s nice to see major companies work to help with climate issues to ensure a better future.

You may be wondering how you can help polar bears. Great question! The first would be to take steps to reduce your carbon and GHG emissions. This doesn’t have to be hard. Many times it takes small actions like reducing plastic usage, trying to use your car when necessary, using public transportation, planting some trees, or even try eating less meat and trying some veggie meals. Signing petitions to protect their habitat from commercial use. Adopting polar bears is also a great way to help. A simple way to help is by sharing what you are learning with others.

I hope you enjoyed this blog! If you found it helpful share it with a friend!