Local and Global Conservation Impacts

Polar Bear International

Polar Bears International (PBI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the worldwide conservation of the polar bear and its habitat through research, stewardship, and education. We provide scientific resources and information on polar bears and their habitat to institutions and the general public worldwide

Kansas City Zoo introduces Arctic Ambassadors.  These Ambassadors are comprised of a dedicated group of educated docents, staff and community supporters some of whom have even traveled to the tundra to visit the big white bears.

Many have become entranced by the polar bears beauty, their playfulness, and their strength. Because of this, polar bears have become the iconic symbol of the troubled Arctic ecosystem.  From biology to geography, from mathematics to physics, from environmental science to cultural sociology, polar bears provide a conversation that can be engaging, surprising and thought-provoking.

The Zoo’s Arctic Ambassadors will present a 25 minute program with video that explains the plights of polar bears, their environment and the situations around these activities.  To schedule an Arctic Ambassador, please call the Zoo’s Education Department at 816-513-5723. The program is free but donations are accepted and appreciated.

Paw of Approval

The Kansas City Zoo with the help of Polar Bear International awarded a Paw of Approval to Kansas City Power and Light (KCP&L) in April 2012.  Kansas City Power and Light Company continues to dominate the metropolitan area with innovative programs, projects, and plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and educate the public about energy conservation. Projects include the development of solar and wind energy sites, tree plantings, habitat restoration, and the KCP&L headquarters is LEED Gold certified.

Putt and Play for Polar Bears

Two Kansas City Zoo keepers, Andrea O’Daniels and Rebecca Grimm, who traveled to Churchill to take part in the PBI Leadership Camp organized the inaugural Putt and Play for Polar Bear fundraiser.  With the help of 4 other keepers the event was held on August 17^t, 2012. Guests played Putt Putt golf, jumped in bouncy houses and played skeet-ball.  The keepers also held a silent auction.  The evening was a great way to raise funds for polar bear conservation .  More than $1800 dollars was raised and donated to Polar Bear International.  The second annual Putt and Play for Polar Bears takes place on Friday, August 2.

Partners In Conservation

The Kansas City Zoo is an active participant of Partners in Conservation.  PIC earns money through the sale of merchandise, including hand-crafted items from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.  At various events throughout the year, you can purchase an item to help support the cause.

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