Week 10 - The Frozen Frontier: Exploring Biodiversity in the Arctic

Introduction

It was brought to my attention this week that the Arctic is seeing some new plant growth. In fact, the Arctic, a vast and remote region at the northernmost tip of our planet, may appear desolate and lifeless at first glance. Its frigid temperatures, icy landscapes, and seemingly barren expanses make it a challenging environment for most species. However, beneath its icy exterior lies a surprisingly rich tapestry of biodiversity. In this blog post, we'll delve into the incredible world of Arctic biodiversity, exploring the unique species that call this frozen wilderness home and the vital role they play in the global ecosystem.

The Arctic Ecosystem

The Arctic ecosystem is a dynamic web of life, intricately interconnected to withstand the extreme conditions of this polar region. Its biodiversity includes a wide range of organisms, from microscopic bacteria to the charismatic polar bear, each adapted to survive in the harshest of environments.

1. Marine Life: The Arctic Ocean, although covered by ice for much of the year, teems with life. Beluga whales, narwhals, seals, and a variety of fish species navigate its icy waters. These marine creatures have developed remarkable adaptations to thrive in the cold, such as layers of blubber for insulation and special enzymes that prevent their blood from freezing.

2. Avian Wonders: The Arctic is a crucial breeding ground for countless bird species. Birds like the iconic Arctic tern embark on remarkable migrations, covering thousands of miles between their Arctic breeding grounds and warmer wintering areas. Other Arctic birds include the snowy owl, ptarmigan, and various species of gulls and auks.

3. Terrestrial Life: While the Arctic tundra may seem stark, it is home to a surprising variety of life forms. Mosses, lichens, and hardy grasses carpet the ground, providing food for herbivores like caribou and muskoxen. The Arctic fox, Arctic hare, and lemming are some of the mammals that have adapted to life on the tundra.

4. Microbial Marvels: Beneath the frozen landscape, microorganisms are thriving in unique environments, such as permafrost and under ice sheets. These microorganisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, influencing the entire Arctic ecosystem.

Biodiversity's Role in the Arctic

The biodiversity of the Arctic isn't just a testament to nature's resilience; it also plays a significant role in the global ecosystem.

1. Climate Regulation: Arctic ice and the reflective properties of snow help regulate the Earth's temperature by reflecting sunlight back into space. As this ice melts due to climate change, it can lead to further warming, making Arctic biodiversity a key player in regulating global climate.

2. Carbon Storage: Arctic ecosystems, particularly the permafrost, store vast amounts of carbon. If thawed, this carbon could be released into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change. Preserving Arctic biodiversity is crucial to maintaining this carbon storage.

3. Global Connectivity: Many Arctic species are migratory, travelling to and from the Arctic each year. This connectivity helps to distribute nutrients and energy across the globe, influencing ecosystems far beyond the Arctic Circle.

Conservation Challenges

Despite its importance, the Arctic ecosystem faces numerous challenges, primarily driven by climate change and human activities. Melting ice, oil and gas extraction, shipping, and pollution threaten the delicate balance of Arctic biodiversity.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect this unique environment, including establishing marine reserves, regulating shipping routes, and monitoring the health of key species like polar bears. Global initiatives like the Paris Agreement aim to mitigate climate change, which could have a profound impact on the Arctic.

Conclusion

The Arctic is a region of stunning natural beauty and incredible biodiversity, defying the notion that life cannot thrive in extreme conditions. As the world faces the challenges of climate change, it is more crucial than ever to protect and preserve this fragile ecosystem. By understanding and valuing the biodiversity of the Arctic, we can work towards a more sustainable future for this frozen frontier and our planet as a whole.

Week 9 - Did You Know???

Did you know Bethany has 11 “Big Ass Fans” scattered throughout the church that were installed in 2020? Ceiling fans help circulate air throughout a room, preventing stagnant pockets of hot or cold air. This can help maintain a more even temperature distribution, which is particularly beneficial in larger rooms (i.e. the sanctuary, gymnasium, and fellowship hall). In the winter, hot air rises, so the use of the big ass fans would be to push that hot air down. This is especially important because Bethany United Church’s sanctuary doesn't have insulated ceilings. Installing ceiling fans is often more cost-effective than installing central air conditioning or ductless systems. They can be a great option for those looking to improve comfort without a significant investment. It is important to keep this in mind as our fans are our main source of cooling or ‘air conditioning’ throughout the summer and can maintain the temperature in terms of heating in the summer. 

Week 8 - Thanks and Reminders (A letter to the readers)

Hello all,

As my time comes to an end, I hope that you have learned more about climate change, climate justice and climate action. I want to thank Bethany United Church for providing me the space to advocate for climate change and to provide all the lovely information I have provided throughout the past 2 months.

I want to remind everyone that there is still the opportunity to participate in one final environmental themed event Monday August 21! This event will have two groups one for those grades 6 - 12 and another for ages 18+. The grade 6-12 event (held from 1:00pm - 3:00pm), is called "Make it Crane'' where you will be making paper cranes as well as hearing from Kyla about all sorts of climate change information. The 18+ event is called "Cranes for Climate Change'' where you will also be making paper cranes and hearing about the global fight to end fossil fuels. The 18+ seminar will be held from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. To sign up please use the google forms found under the Climate Motivator Page on Bethany United Church website. 
I will continue to check my email (kmills.motivateclimate@gmail.com) feel free to reach out if you have any questions or just want to have a chat regarding climate change, climate justice and climate action.

Week 7 - Climate Motivators Get Involved in Politics and Policies

Last week us Climate Motivators wrote letters to our MP and Minister Steven Guilbault to address things around climate change that we, along with the United Church of Canada, want to see the government do around climate change and climate justice. These of which include, support calls to address loss & damage in the Global South, and establish a mechanism for financing it. The last COP27 Canada agreed to the idea of loss and damage. The upcoming COP28 will be largely surrounding the logistics of implementation. A commitment to equal financial support for climate change adaptation and mitigation measures in the global south; it is currently a 40/60 split. An increase in Canada's current Greenhouse Gas emissions target from 40-45% below 2005 levels to 60%.  That's not all, we also encouraged MP’s and Minister Steven Guilbeault to pass bills C-262 and C-263 of which have to do with improving Canadian corporate accountability internationally, this especially relates to resource extraction. In the climate emergency it is important to hold not only individuals but companies and organisations as a whole to ensure their knowledge and accountability to climate change.

We also included origami paper cranes and/or other origami animals with a meaning behind them. That meaning is to show our support for millions of people worldwide who will demand a swift, just, and equitable end to fossil fuels, as world leaders gather at the UN in New York. The climate crisis is primarily caused by the coal, oil, and gas industry, which drives a destructive economic system. A rapid and just transition from fossil fuels to a clean energy system is crucial for addressing climate change. Leaders of polluting countries must deliver a fair phase-out and fund it globally. People are resisting pipelines, mines, and infrastructure development, demanding financial institutions stop funding fossil fuels, and demanding accountability from big oil, coal, and gas companies.

Week 6 - Trip to Lockwood Farms

At Lockwood Farms, they are currently working on what they call EcoEggs. They are collaborating with Enterra to feed Black Soldier Fly Larvae to their chickens. Insect agriculture has enormous potential to transform our food systems and feed the world's population. Soy crops can provide 356 pounds of food protein per acre, whereas insect protein can produce up to 100,000 lbs of edible protein per acre. This keeps rubbish out of landfill. The larvae of the Black Soldier Fly are raised on this slurry until they pupate. The plump larvae are wrapped after being dried. Our order is sent to our feed supplier, who incorporates it into our feed. Although insects are a natural element of a hen's diet, standard feed does not include insect protein in its regular ration. Instead, the industry has focused on soy. Soy crops grown for animal feed are mostly to blame for the Amazon basin's devastation. This concern for the environment has influenced our feed, and we have not used soy in our feed since we began farming. Brazil may be a world away, but the Amazon's trees keep our air clean. Lockwood Farms are doing a bunch more to keep their farming habits as sustainable as possible. You can check them out at https://lockwoodfarms.ca/ .

Week 5 - Arrived at Camp Pringle

Kyla is in BC this week on a trip with the other climate motivators across the country. She will be at the Shawnigan Lake campsite where she will learn more about what we can do to protect the environment.

Kyla will be posting lots of new information on the Bethany website under the Climate motivation page in the Ministry section. This includes resources that are helpful in learning more about the environment and information that Kyla has learned and would like to share with you.

“After a long day of travel, I have made it to Camp Pringle. It’s been a hectic start to our two weeks in BC. I’m excited to see what the next two weeks have to offer.” - Kyla

Week 4 - How do we offer the world a witness to our words about Climate Change, so others see our concern is not just slogans and platitudes but that we walk the talk.

To offer the world a witness to your words about climate change and demonstrate that your concern is genuine and not just empty slogans and platitudes, you can take concrete actions that align with your beliefs. Here are some steps you can consider taking:

• Educate Yourself: Ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of climate change, its impacts, and potential solutions. Stay updated on the latest scientific findings and research.

• Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Make changes in your lifestyle to minimise your carbon emissions. This could include using public transportation, biking, or walking instead of driving, reducing energy consumption, and adopting sustainable practices in your daily life.

• Support Renewable Energy: Invest in renewable energy sources for your home or business, such as solar panels. If that's not possible, consider supporting renewable energy projects in your community or advocating for their implementation.

• Promote Sustainable Consumption: Be mindful of your consumption habits and try to support products and companies that prioritise sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices.

• Advocate for Change: Use your voice to advocate for climate change action. This could involve contacting your local representatives, participating in climate protests or demonstrations, and engaging in community discussions about climate issues.

• Engage in Climate-friendly Activities: Participate in local environmental initiatives, such as tree-planting events, beach clean-ups, or community gardening projects.

• Support Climate Organisations: Contribute to and support organisations that are actively working on climate change solutions and support sustainable development.

• Lead by Example: Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to join you in taking action against climate change. Leading by example can be a powerful way to inspire others.

• Communicate and Share: Use social media and other platforms to share your actions, experiences, and knowledge about climate change. Engaging with others and sharing information can help raise awareness and encourage positive change.

• Hold Yourself Accountable: Continuously monitor your actions and progress. Reflect on how you can improve and adjust your approach to make a more significant impact on the fight against climate change.

Remember that tackling climate change requires collective effort, and by demonstrating your genuine concern through action, you can inspire others to do the same. Walking the talk is crucial for creating a meaningful and lasting impact on the global fight against climate change.

Also Kyla will be away at Camp Pringle in Shawnigan Lake, British Columbia from July 24th until August 6th. If you would like to get in contact with her email her at kmills.motivateclimate@gmail.com.

Week 3 - Seminar Announcement

It has been a whirlwind of a week for one of our youths in their orientation to the role of Climate Motivator for the summer. On Tuesday, July 4th, Kyla Mills began learning and preparing to work towards some outcomes that she is eager for the broader community of faith to consider supporting and participating.

Next week on Wednesday evening, July 19th at 7pm, she invites anyone interested to sign up and attend an environmental seminar. She hopes you will come join her for a discussion about Climate Justice and the United Church of Canada. 

You can sign up by going to the “Climate Motivator” page under “Ministries” on the Bethany United Church website.

There will be a second seminar opportunity in August, watch for this announcement later in July. Kyla will also be recording her presentation and making this available on her YouTube Channel.

Please email her with any questions or thoughts at kmills.motivateclimate@gmail.com.

Week 2 - Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources

Traditionally, resources have been categorised as either renewable or nonrenewable. However, natural resources fall into three types: renewable, non-renewable, and continuous. These classifications are evolving as we put more strain on the earth's natural capital, and certain resources' definitions are shifting. In a nutshell, continuous resources are resources that are always available in a steady supply, such as solar, wind, and tidal energy. Non-renewable resources are only available in a specific location and in finite quantities since the rate at which the resources regenerate is exceedingly slow on the human timescale. Renewable resources recover spontaneously as long as their ability to do so is not irrevocably harmed. However, not all resources are purely categorised according to this simple scheme. Some stock resources, such as metal ores, are more difficult to categorise. They are typically regarded as non-renewable stock resources, however they can be reused. They are able to be extracted once as stocks, but the refined metals can be recycled as scrap. Even though their parent ores are not, the resource products are. 

Week 1 - Introduction

Each week in this corner of the newsletter will be information shared by Kyla Mills. We are pleased to share that with full support of our community of faith, and a volunteer mentor in Mark King, Kyla was hired for the summer by the General Council of the United Church of Canada to be one of 16 youth across the country for a Canada Summer Jobs funded position to be a “Climate Motivator.”

As a 3rd year student studying geography at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, ON, Kyla has a definite interest and values the purposeful work of this role to effect social justice and environmental issues that impacts Creation in our corner of province, country, and globe.

We look forward to her engagement over the summer months, and watch for opportunities to learn and grow with her.