Ground Zero

The Alaskans

The Russians

What is Climate Change?  Climate change is an increase in temperatures world wide.  It affects plants and all animals, even humans. NOAA photo

What is Climate Change?  It is like having an extra-thick blanket on in the summer instead of a light one.

What are Greenhouse Gases?  Greenhouse gases trap heat and make earth warmer.  In the past 100 years there has been a significant increase in the amount of greenhouse gases.  Greenhouse gases come from many places, especially cars, factories, and farms

Who Feels the Effects?  Animals can lose their homes and their food sources.  Plants can no longer live in their original habitats.  Native people lose the ability to do traditional activities.  Coastal villages must move further inland.  People who live in northern climates must adapt to a new way of life.

How are Polar Bears Affected?  The sea-ice that polar bears live on in the artic is melting and will be completely gone by  Already, polar bears must swim long distances to find food and shelter.  In years past 66% of baby polar bears survived to adulthood, now only 24% of baby polar bears survive to adulthood.

How are Caribou Affected?  Because we now have freezing rain instead of snow, Caribou can no longer reach the plants they normally eat.  Instead of the normal lichen, there have been reports of Caribou in Russia eating mushrooms.

What are Invasive Species?  As temperatures increase fish, plants and insects that normally live in cold climates move north.  Recently, tropical fish have been seen in Alaskan waters.  Some invasive species have negative effects on Alaskan forests. © Ralph Berry OSU

How are Plants Affected by Climate Change?  Invasive insects destroy trees and plants.  Spruce trees that have been eaten by the Spruce Bark Beetle are more likely to catch on fire.  An invasive species called Purple Loosestrife have taken the place of local plants and currently have no natural predators in our area.

How are Native Groups in Alaska and Russia Affected?  Because of erosion, coastal villages are being forced to move or create man-made barriers.  Animals that natives depend on for survival are leaving the area, forcing natives to find other ways to live.

What can we do to help?  Every little bit helps!  Ride your bike  Carpool with your friends.  Talk to your parents about climate change  Turn the water off when you are brushing your teeth.  Turn off the lights when you leave a room, and the TV when you are done watching it.

It’s Easy Being Green!