Thursday, November 17, 2011

Last Ice Refuge

Scientists have projected based on computer simulations that the Canadian high Arctic Archipelago will be the last area of ice in the warmer world to come. This remnant of persistent ice will be the refuge for those polar bears that survive rapid global warming. The region in Canada and Greenland is about 500,000 square miles, or twice the size of Texas.{map 14.5.2011}The World Wildlife Fund has been working to preserve Arctic wildlife since 1992 and is now focusing efforts on developing a management plan for the polar bear's last refuge. WWF brought the Coca-Cola, Inc. chairman and CEO to Hudson's Bay to observe the impact of global warming on the bears and the threat it poses to sensitive Arctic ecology. Readers no doubt know that Coca-Cola has been using the polar bear in its advertisements during the holiday season for years [image]. As a result of this visit, and the available scientific evidence, the Coca-Cola company decided to support WWF's efforts to save a home on this planet for such an iconic species. It will donate $2 million over the next five years to begin the important development plan work. Coca-Cola's "Arctic Home" campaign is a first step to raising public awareness of the polar bear's plight and providing the necessary financial resources. The company will match public donations up to $1,000,000. US Person does not endorse products, but believes that business corporations willing to help preserve nature and not destroy it should receive consumer support for their cooperation. Look for the white cans and bottle caps--the first ones in 125 years--if you buy Coke this holiday season. Give a polar bear a home for Christmas by making a donation. (Discliamer: There is no scientific evidence that polar bears enjoy Coca-Cola.)