Top 10 Reasons Why You’re Awesome!

WWF is so grateful to all of our climbers and supporters who make critical conservation work across Canada and the world possible!  As you get your climbing shoes ready, here’s some great reminders of how you’re making a difference.
1.  Helping keep polar bears and people safe
Northerners are intimately connected to the climate and wildlife of the Arctic, having lived alongside these species for thousands of years.  As sea-ice melts because of our warming climates, things are changing. Polar bears are coming closer to human communities, more often, which is dangerous for everyone.  You’re reducing risks for bears and people through innovative safety measures. Read the story.

polar bear
© Leo Ikakhik, Hamlet of Arviat

2.  Protecting habitat in all three Canadian oceans
Canada is way behind on ocean protection, but you’re helping change that. From helping establish the first Bowhead Whale sanctuary to protecting incredible seascapes like Gwaii Haanas and The Gully.  Together, we’re identifying quiet refuges for whales and pushing for new protected spaces so life in our oceans thrives.
Northern Bottlenose Whale, underwater, The Sable Gully, Canada
Northern bottlenose whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus) photographed underwater in The Sable Gully, near Nova Scotia, Canada. © Linda WEILGART / WWF-Canada

3.  Championing local water protection
Canada is home to hundreds of lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands, many of which need help to become and remain healthy. You’re supporting champions for local water health across the country by giving them access to critical data and by driving on-the-ground restoration efforts.   Find out how.
Baffin Island
Mountains and clouds reflected in still waters on Baffin Island, Nunavut, Canada. © Zoe Caron / WWF-Canada

4.  Transforming the seafood industry
The way we fish is directly linked to the health of our oceans. Seafood is the largest traded food commodity on the planet, and a critical source of protein for 1 billion people worldwide.  You’re helping transform it into a sustainable industry—from hook to plate.  Find out how.
Atlantic cod, Canada
Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) aquaculture, Newfoundland, Canada.
© Gilbert Van Ryckevorsel / WWF-Canada

5.  Reviving the flight of the monarch butterflies
Monarchs are an amazing North American icon, but their populations are plummeting.  You’re helping protect their wintering habitat in Mexico and crack down on illegal logging.  Next week is Monarch Butterfly week at WWF, a perfect time to learn more:  wwf.ca/monarchbutterfly
Monarch butterfly on flower © Kevin Schafer / WWF-Canon
Monarch butterfly on flower © Kevin Schafer / WWF-Canon

6.  Taking a stand for Canada’s Great Bear
Canada’s precious and beautiful Great Bear region is no place for oil pipelines and tankers.  With your support, WWF has brought high-profile Canadians and thousands of people across the country and the world to raise their voices on this issue.  And, because of you we can bring strong science to the table to back up those voices.  Stay tuned for more actions in the coming month and learn more.
Sea lions
Sea lions (Otariidae sp), relaxing on the rocks at Garcin Rocks, in Gwaii Haanas, Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia, Canada © Andrew S. Wright / WWF-Canada

7.  Cracking down on illegal ivory
Illegal and unsustainable wildlife trade is driving many endangered species, like elephants, toward extinction. You’re helping advocate for strong conservation laws and cracking down on those who break them. This year, supporters like you successfully petitioned Thailand to end its illegal ivory trade.   Read more.
Asian elephants
A herd of Asian elephants is seen in Kuiburi National Park, Thailand. © WWF-Greater Mekong / Wayuphong Jitvijak

8.  Getting international protection for sharks
Sharks have been around since the time of the dinosaur, but will they survive us?  With your help, we’re working both internationally and here in Canada to get the right protections in place so that they can.  This past year, because of your support, 5 species of sharks have stronger protections from unsustainable trade.   How you’re helping sharks. 
blue shark
A Blue shark (Prionace glauca) plying the blue waters near Rhode Island, USA, in the North Atlantic ocean. © National Geographic Stock /Paul Sutherland / WWF

 9.  Bringing North Atlantic right whales back from the brink
With only 450 North Atlantic right whales left in the world, this species needs urgent protection. Supporters like you helped get shipping lanes moved in the Bay of Fundy: a first for conservation.  You also supported a critical partnership between WWF, scientists and local fishermen to keep right whales safe from fishing lines.   Read more.
North Atlantic right whale
North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) off Grand Manan Island, Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, Canada. © Barrett&MacKay / WWF-Canada

10.  Showing that Renewable is more than doable
In Canada, electricity generation is a major source of the carbon-polluting emissions that are causing climate change.  But your support is powering an innovative partnership between WWF and the University of Waterloo to tangibly demonstrate cleaner solutions. By mapping all of Canada’s renewable energy, we’re showing that a better world is possible and that we have the right power to get there. Watch the video.
Wind turbines, Alberta, Canada
Wind turbines near Cowley in southern Alberta, Canada. © Patricia Buckley / WWF-Canada

All of this—and so much more—is possible because of what you do!  Thank you for climbing and we’ll see you at the top!