By Bring it in for a bear hug!
Celebrated each year on February 27th, International Polar Bear Day raises much needed awareness for the conservation and protection of these mighty Arctic wonders. Today provides an incredible opportunity for people and nonprofits around the world to come together and learn more about the challenges facing polar bears and their habitats.
In this article, we take a cool look into the founding of International Polar Bear Day, learn about the nonprofits working to protect this "cooler than your average bear", and showcase an Amazing Alaska auction package filled with stunning snowy sights in Fairbanks,Anchorage, and Denali!
Ice to Meet You
Polar bears are iconic symbols of the Arctic and are well-adapted to the harsh environment of the region but lately, they’ve needed the help of one notable nonprofit. International Polar Bear Day was established in 2011 by Polar Bears International, an organization dedicated to the conservation of polar bears and their Arctic habitat. The day was founded to focus awareness on the impact of climate change on polar bears, including the loss of sea ice, which they rely on for hunting and raising their young.
For over a decade, nonprofits have organized icy events and activities to educate people about the importance of conservation and to inspire them to take action to help protect polar bears and their natural homes. This includes fundraisers, educational programs, and online campaigns to raise awareness through outreach.
Snow Angels
Thankfully, Polar Bears International’s efforts created a snowball effect! Today, there are numerous nonprofit conservation organizations that have dedicated themselves to saving the polar bear, such as the World Wildlife Fund and Alaska Wilderness League. By donating to these organizations, participating in fundraisers, or volunteering time, donors have helped to support successful conservation efforts and initiatives year after year.
Organizations encourage both companies and individuals to aid in polar bear conservation by reducing humanity’s carbon footprint. By reducing emissions and taking steps to live a more sustainable lifestyle, we can mitigate the effects of climate change on the fragile Arctic environment. These nonprofits stress that simple actions like using energy-efficient appliances, taking public transportation, and reducing waste can all make a difference.
Polar bears are classified as marine mammals as they spend most of their lives on the sea ice of the Arctic Ocean.
Where to Bear Witness
Did you know that the United States is home to the world's southernmost population of polar bears? Alaska’s Arctic region provides a habitat for around 3,000 polar bears, making it a crucial area for the conservation of this majestic bear. Conservation efforts in the United States are focused on studying the polar bears in Alaska, monitoring their population trends, and working to protect their habitat. The U.S. government has designated critical habitat areas for polar bears across the state and implemented measures to reduce human-bear conflicts.
Sightings have been reported all over Alaska, primarily along the northern and western coastlines of the state. Some of the key areas where polar bears can be spotted include the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the North Slope region, and the coastal areas of the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. The town of Barrow, located on the northernmost point of Alaska, is famous for its polar bear sightings.
The AP Experience: Amazing Alaska
Our Amazing Alaska travel package gives donors an awe-inspiring opportunity to explore the seasonal beauty of one of America's most dramatic landscapes on a guided Alaskan adventure.
The Alaska Railroad provides rail transportation traversing almost 500 miles of remote and wild landscapes offering an exciting, bucket-list adventure. Donors can choose a winter or summer package to see either the iconic Denali wilderness or a take a trip to Aurora Borealis country for an unforgettable journey to the cosmos. In winter, take the railway one-way from Anchorage to Fairbanks, covering miles of stunning, snow-blanketed landscape with a return flight. In summer, take the railway round trip through the rugged Alaskan terrain, offering unparalleled views of rivers and wildlife.
When you get back to Anchorage, let an insider lead the way around Anchorage on this half-day tour of the city, featuring stops at must-see attractions like Ship Creek and Alaska Wild Berry Products. Gain a deeper understanding of local culture as you learn the history and folklore behind key Anchorage attractions on this joint walking and driving tour of the city.
The Tip of the Iceberg
By coming together as a global community, we can make a difference and ensure that polar bears continue to thrive in their icy Arctic home. Let's celebrate International Polar Bear Day by showing our support for these magnificent creatures and supporting the nonprofits dedicated to protecting them.
