A Center for Safe Coexistence with Polar Bears will open in St. Petersburg as part of the “Bear Patrol” project launched by Rosprirodnadzor.
Andrey Nagibin, the head of the “Clean Arctic” project, explained that the successful experience of the “Bear Patrol” in Chukotka will serve as the basis for expanding this initiative to other regions of Russia. In the near future, plans include establishing a Center for Safe Coexistence with Polar Bears in St. Petersburg.
The expert community highlights the need for environmental education in the Arctic regions of Russia, where polar bears inhabit. Currently, these territories are actively developing, leading to an increase in the number of workers arriving for shifts. This development may result in conflicts between humans and bears. Therefore, training for people living or temporarily working in the North is such a crucial aspect.
Moreover, changes to waste management legislation are necessary. Improper waste disposal may lead to the appearance of bears in residential areas, according to experts.
Equally important is the educational work of the “Bear Patrol,” aimed at teaching people the rules of interaction with polar bears.