 Canada's Arctic supports our planet's largest remaining pristine ecosystems. It's home not only to polar bears, but also to species such as caribou, narwhal and beluga whales, arctic char, seabirds, seals, and musk oxen. But this magnificent wilderness is now threatened by major pressures: climate change, toxic pollution, mining, and oil and gas development.
Addressing Climate Change
Temperatures in most parts of the Arctic are rising and this is affecting the people and species that live in the north, especially the polar bear. WWF is working to understand and reverse the effects of climate change. We're collecting scientific data on changes in the sea ice and its impact on wildlife. This information helps us educate and persuade people, governments, and industry to do more to reduce the harmful effects of climate change on the planet.
Tackling Toxic Pollution
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) produced in the south are brought to the Arctic by air and ocean currents, as well as by rivers and migratory wildlife. These long-lived toxins accumulate to high concentrations in the Arctic food chain, threatening wildlife and people. WWF is collaborating with local Inuit and scientists/toxicologists to document the effects of toxic contamination on wildlife. On a global scale, WWF is making a bold effort to push forward full implementation of the international treaty to eliminate POPs.
Safeguarding Habitat
WWF is determined to safeguard key Arctic habitats on the land and in the water, such as calving areas, denning sites, and critical feeding and staging areas. We're working with local people, governments and industry to set aside a network of protected areas in all natural regions, to protect a 50 million hectare network of new Arctic conservation areas by 2005 - - and safeguard ecological and cultural values forever.
Saving Polar Bears
 WWF is committed to securing a future for the world's polar bears, but we can't do this without the help of our supporters. You can help in a number of ways. Learning about and appreciating Arctic wildlife and habitat is a great start. But staying informed about environmental issues, and then writing, faxing, telephoning or emailing politicians is even better.
You can also help save the polar bear and other Arctic wildlife through WWF's Adopt a Polar Bear program.
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