The list of actions featured on this page does not claim to be definitive, nor should you read it as a list of categorical imperatives. They are rather simple tips developed on the basis of our own experiences and encounters during our personal and professional journey with mountain and wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, photographers and nature guides, suggested by our fellow travellers or inspired by other sources.

They are small but concrete ways we can contribute individually not only to conserving the bear and its environment, but also to developing a common awareness of the issues involved. When we began defining this project, we were warned: “If you can’t explain why the bear needs protecting to those closest to you, you won’t be able to convince anyone else”.

Over time, we have come to understand that a lot depends on the kind of relationships we establish with others and with nature. We can only make a difference if we interact with both people and other animals in the right way, in other words, with empathy.

Join us in spreading awareness and sensitivity and making small but important gestures for the bear. Because what’s good for these animals is also good for us.

Being able to observe bears in the Apennines today is a sign that efforts to protect them have been successful and are continuing in the right direction. But much still needs to be done. The problems and threats are many, but there is no shortage of opportunities or people to solve them. The foundations are already in place for fostering a large “nature-proof” community, made up of people aware that living “according to nature” is the best way to perpetuate life on our planet. But we must do this now, the time for postponing this commitment has run out. Today we all have an extraordinary opportunity to contribute to conserving nature, everyone with their own role and responsibility.

What can you do every day?

Thank you for being interested in bears and wanting to do your part to ensure they continue living in their territories, now that we understand how important this is for our own lives as well. Remember that the Earth has only one ecosystem, so what applies to the bear also applies to all other species, their environment and to us.

Reconnect with nature

Spending time outdoors is the best way to regain a sense of belonging to the natural world. As well as the physical benefits, this can also improve our cognitive, communication and social skills.

Dedicate at least one day a week to walking in nature alone or with someone close to you. You can also do this in a park near your home, in a natural environment or in a nearby protected area.

Whether you live in the city or the countryside, take time to observe the nature around you, even on your windowsill.

Experience nature with empathy

Caring for your neighbours, both human and otherwise, is the first step to forming relationships with the world around you. Respect them as you would want to be respected.

If you see a bear or other animal crossing or going down a road, do not approach or chase it, but let it move away.

If you are lucky enough to observe a bear in the wild, keep your distance. If you can, retrace your steps so as not to disturb it or wait for it to move away

Animals don’t have a sense of ownership, but like us they love their privacy and quiet. When in the wilderness stay on the paths and follow the regulations.

Even if they look hungry to you, animals don’t need your help. Never for any reason leave food or rubbish lying around.

Indulge your curiosity

The future of bears and our planet is in the hands of curious people. Asking questions is also the only way to find answers and understand how to act.

Both at home and in the mountains, think about the impact of your actions on bears and the environment.

Read our stories right to the end and follow the links for more information.

Sign up for our newsletter and contact us with questions and curiosities.

Go beyond the news

Conservation doesn’t need sensationalism and polarisation, it needs emotions, rationality, facts and solutions.

Investigate further before sharing, a lot of news about large carnivores is artfully edited to make news, if not outright fabricated.

Report Fake News to promote greater awareness in others.

Never share videos of people chasing or approaching a bear or other animal to film it. Ask yourself how the animal is feeling. Don’t make illegal behaviour go viral.

Share your emotions

You protect what you love, you love what you know. The greater the number of people aware of the story of bears, the greater the possibility of conserving them, together with all the other wonders of our planet.

Talk about bears, discuss them with those closest to you and share the stories you are most passionate about.

Take every opportunity to share your love of bears and nature.

Collaborate and participate

Each one of us can make a difference, but working together is more effective

Collaborate with non-profit organisations involved in practical actions for nature conservation. Always ask to be kept up-to-date on the effectiveness of the initiatives you participate in. Work together with the protected areas looking for volunteers for conservation and research activities.

On your property, do everything you can to reduce possible conflict between wildlife and your activities. For more information, go to the website of your nearest protected area or visit bearsmart.com.

Make your voice heard

Every one of us has the power to spread positive and proactive messages about nature.

Demonstrations and petitions are a great way to increase the visibility of environmental debates. Take part and organise them peacefully and respectfully on change.org or actionnetwork.org.

If used sensitively, social media are an excellent way to bring conservation issues to the attention of your political points of reference. Find inspiration on wilderness.org

Vote for politicians and local administrators who care about nature conservation.

Spread positive and proactive examples of conservation. To start finding stories, go to coexistence.life

Don’t look the other way

There are never enough eyes to watch over a natural area. Do your part, it’s your territory too!

Inform the competent authority of any illegal action against animals or the environment.

Do not draw attention to the presence of a bear, especially along a road or in a built-up area. But you should report the animal to the appropriate authorities.

Slow down and discover

Bears and people cross or go down roads for the same reasons. Every year around the world, millions of bears and other animals are injured and killed. Let’s work at reducing the risk.

Drive slowly. At 70 km/h, the emergency braking distance is about 30 metres. Especially if you’re driving through a protected area, drive more slowly, even below the legal limits. By slowing down, you’ll also enjoy the scenery more.

Reduce your footprint

There are over seven billion of us and many studies indicate that our consumption and waste go far beyond what is necessary and sustainable, impoverishing our planet and making it increasingly fragile. At home, at work or on holiday, it all depends on our everyday choices.

We can reduce our impact on the environment with small daily actions. For inspiration, visit janegoodall.org

Measure your impact on the environment on carbonfootprint.com

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