Summary of Arctic Sea Ice Day is July 15: Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Arctic Ecosystems, Sea Ice, Polar Bears:
The content discusses the importance of Arctic sea ice for the ecosystem and various species, such as polar bears and seals. It emphasizes the impact of climate change on the Arctic. It outlines an upcoming summit in Manitoba, Canada, to study the effects of climate change on polar bears and the Arctic ecosystem. The content also highlights the role of sea ice in the Arctic food chain and its global impact in cooling the planet. It calls for action to reduce carbon emissions and shift to renewable energy sources to protect Arctic sea ice. The content provides ways for individuals to get involved in the fight against climate change, such as supporting climate-conscious policies, raising awareness, adopting sustainable lifestyle choices, and supporting research and conservation organizations. The partnership between the Detroit Zoological Society, Polar Bears International, and the National Network for Ocean and Climate Change Interpretation is an example of collaboration in promoting conservation and sustainable practices.
Arctic Sea Ice Day is July 15: Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Arctic Ecosystems, Sea Ice, Polar Bears and More
The Arctic is an incredible and unique ecosystem, with its icy landscapes and diverse wildlife. It is a fragile environment that is increasingly affected by climate change, particularly the decline in sea ice. On July 15, we celebrate Arctic Sea Ice Day to raise awareness about the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems, sea ice, and the species that rely on it, such as polar bears. Join us as we delve into the fascinating aspects of the Arctic and explore the importance of preserving this delicate ecosystem.
Sea ice is often referred to as the soil of the Arctic ecosystem because it serves as the foundation of the food chain. The channels formed in the sea ice create a habitat for algae, the base of the Arctic food web. Zooplankton feed on the algae, which then become prey for larger species like Arctic cod. Seals feed on Arctic cod, and polar bears, in turn, rely on seals as their primary prey. The sea ice provides an advantage for polar bears, allowing them to stalk and hunt seals. Without the sea ice, the entire food chain would collapse, impacting polar bears and the Arctic ecosystem.
Aside from its role in the Arctic food chain, sea ice has a global impact. It acts as a global air conditioner, reflecting the sun’s light and heat back into space, which helps cool the planet. As climate change continues to cause the decline in Arctic sea ice, the planet absorbs more heat, leading to disruptions in the climate system and more frequent extreme weather events worldwide.
In recent years, the Arctic has witnessed the decline of thicker, multi-year ice, replaced by thinner seasonal ice. This young ice is more vulnerable to rapid melting and moves more easily, making it difficult for polar bears to find food and mates. The last 15 years have seen the lowest sea ice extent in satellite records, with the lowest amount of old, thick sea ice ever recorded. Climate projections indicate that Arctic open-water periods will dramatically increase by 2100 without action to reduce heat-trapping emissions. These longer open-water periods would severely impact the polar bear‘s ability to hunt, along with the abundance of ice seals, and have ripple effects on people and wildlife globally.
The good news is that it is not yet too late to save Arctic sea ice and protect the ecosystem and species that depend on it. Research shows that there is no tipping point, and the ice can rebound if we take immediate action to shift away from fossil fuels and embrace renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. Transitioning to renewable energy helps reduce carbon emissions, creates jobs, strengthens the economy, and improves overall environmental and human health.
As individuals, we can play a role in safeguarding the future of Arctic sea ice. It starts with supporting climate-conscious policies and legislation, urging officials to prioritize renewable energy and emission reductions. Raising awareness and spreading the word about the significance of Arctic sea ice is also crucial. We can encourage collective action by sharing reliable information and news through social media and conversations.
Adopting sustainable lifestyle choices such as switching to a plant-based diet or reducing meat consumption can stabilize Arctic sea ice. The livestock industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and by making sustainable dietary choices, we can reduce our environmental impact.
Supporting research and conservation organizations that focus on Arctic sea ice, such as Polar Bears International (PBI), the National Network for Ocean and Climate Change Interpretation (NNOCCI), and the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP), can make a difference. Donating time or resources to these organizations can help fund essential research and conservation efforts.
At the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS), we are committed to protecting polar bears and their habitat. Through our participation in the PBI Climate Alliance Program and our upcoming expedition to Manitoba, Canada, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of climate change on polar bears and the Arctic ecosystem. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing with organizations like PBI and NNOCCI are essential in promoting conservation and sustainable practices.
By working together, researchers, educators, and community members can pool resources and expertise to develop innovative solutions that will help safeguard the future of our planet and its diverse ecosystems. Together, we can ensure the continued health and well-being of the Arctic ecosystem and the species, including polar bears, that rely on it.
Arctic Sea Ice Day is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of Arctic sea ice and its conservation. Let us all take action to reduce our carbon footprint, advocate for renewable energy, and support organizations working tirelessly to protect the Arctic and its precious residents. The future of the Arctic lies in our hands, and it is up to every one of us to make a difference.
