Climate change: Melting Arctic threatens polar bears, ecosystem

SVALBARD, JAN MAYEN, ANTARCTICA - RECENT, 2023: The Arctic, a polar region located in the far north of the Earth, has been the most affected by global climate change in recent years, resulting in rapid melting of ice and warming, as well as affecting wildlife, particularly the polar bear. Polar bears, the world's largest land predators, have been designated as "vulnerable" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List due to declining populations, and are most likely to lose habitat in the Arctic territories of Canada, Denmark (Greenland), Norway, Russia, and the US (Alaska) if the melting trend continues, putting marine mammals' survival at risk. The IUCN used a GPS collar tracking device to monitor and study the loss of polar bear habitat and sea ice. Recent research indicates that unless carbon emissions are reduced, polar bear populations in many areas may become extinct by the end of this century. During the third National Arctic Scientific Research Expedition under the auspices of Türkiye’s Polar Research Institute, scientists observed polar wildlife habitats and conducted reports throughout the expedition. Live observations conducted in polar regions are of significant importance as they serve as preliminary preparations for comprehensive research in future expeditions. During scientific research expeditions, physical parameters supporting the ecosystem are observed, along with research on climate projections and ecosystem adaptation to change in the region. The aim is to contribute to international literature by monitoring these parameters in the coming years. The researchers attribute the shrinking habitat of polar bears in the Arctic, which is a sanctuary for other species, to global climate change and the subsequent melting of sea ice. (Footage by Şebnem Coşkun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)