Polar bears could become extinct because of melting ice at the Artic

Washington, September 17 : Scientists have warned that Polar bears and other rare species could become extinct, as latest figures show rapid melting of the Artic sea ice, which is at currently at a record low.

According to a report in ENN (Environmental News Network), scientists from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), who are recording the ice cover over the North Pole, have said that less ice is predicted in the Arctic this year than in any other.

Experts said this not only means a loss of habitat to species like polar bears and loss of livelihood for indigenous peoples, but could speed up global warming as water absorbs heat rather than reflecting the sun's rays back into space.

"We are expecting confirmation of 2008 being either the lowest or the second-lowest year in terms of summer ice coverage," said Dr Martin Sommerkorn, senior climate change advisor at WWF International's Arctic Programme.

ANI