A poignant image of a polar bear with plastic hanging from its jaws has been shortlisted for the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2024 award. The photo, taken in the Arctic, serves as a stark reminder of the widespread impact of plastic pollution on even the most remote ecosystems. This image highlights the threats faced by polar bears, including the decline of sea ice due to climate change and the increasing ingestion of plastic.
The Arctic Ice Project has appointed Stephanie Olinger as its new technical director. Olinger, a climate scientist with a Ph.D. in cryospheric geophysics, will lead research and development initiatives focused on Arctic Sea ice albedo modification to combat climate change.
Scientists have developed innovative stick-on GPS tags that offer a less invasive way to track polar bears, providing crucial data about their behavior and adaptation to climate change. This breakthrough addresses the limitations of traditional satellite collars, which are only suitable for adult females. The new tags will help researchers better understand how polar bears are coping with disappearing sea ice and potentially prevent human-bear encounters.
The Arctic, once a distant dream for many due to visa complexities, is now more accessible than ever. This article outlines visa-free travel options for citizens of various countries, highlighting key destinations and responsible tourism practices for an unforgettable Arctic adventure.
Despite a new UN regulation banning heavy fuel oil (HFO) in Arctic waters, loopholes and exemptions are allowing many ships to continue using this polluting fuel. The ban, intended to protect the sensitive Arctic ecosystem, faces challenges from countries like Russia, which has a large fleet and is not planning to implement the regulation. Environmental groups warn that the ban may not significantly reduce HFO usage for another five years, leaving the Arctic vulnerable to its harmful emissions and spill risks.
Oil and gas flaring, plastics pollution, and climate change are exposing Indigenous communities in the Arctic to toxic chemicals, leading to respiratory issues, cancer, and other health disparities. The upcoming Plastics Treaty negotiations in Ottawa are crucial for protecting human health and the environment, especially for Indigenous peoples who bear the brunt of environmental injustices. A treaty that controls plastic production and eliminates toxic chemicals would rectify these injustices and benefit fenceline communities and all who are exposed to toxic chemicals.
