Paris, France – Scientists are warning that polar bears in the Hudson Bay region could face extinction if global warming continues to exceed certain temperature thresholds as outlined in the Paris Agreement. Recent studies have shown that prolonged ice-free periods resulting from rising temperatures are putting the local polar bear population at risk.
Experts emphasize that if the world fails to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement, polar bears in the Southern and Western Hudson Bay could be among the first to suffer the consequences. The study highlights that an ice-free period lasting longer than recommended could have devastating effects on the survival of these majestic animals.
Researchers have identified a critical threshold temperature range of 1.6 to 2.6 °C, beyond which the ice-free period in Hudson Bay could become too long for polar bears to thrive. This new information underscores the urgency of taking concrete actions to curb global warming and protect vulnerable species like polar bears from extinction.
The alarming findings serve as a wake-up call for policymakers and world leaders to prioritize climate action and implement measures to limit the rise in global temperatures. The fate of the polar bears in Hudson Bay is closely intertwined with the broader issue of climate change, emphasizing the need for immediate and decisive action to mitigate its impact on wildlife and ecosystems.
If significant steps are not taken to address the root causes of climate change, polar bears in the Hudson Bay region could face an uncertain future. The study’s authors hope that their research will spur meaningful changes in policies and individual behaviors to safeguard the survival of these iconic Arctic animals for generations to come.