Final answer:
When deciding when to drill in the Arctic, decision makers should consider the calving season of caribou and the birthing season of polar bears. Thorough environmental impact assessments and consultation with experts and indigenous peoples can help make informed and responsible decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When deciding which time of year to drill in the Arctic, decision makers should take into consideration the calving season of caribou and the birthing season of polar bears. Caribou calving season occurs in the summer, while polar bears give birth in the winter. Since both caribou and polar bears are important species in the Arctic ecosystem, making a decision that benefits one without harming the other is crucial.
One way to approach this is by conducting thorough environmental impact assessments that consider the potential effects of drilling on both caribou and polar bears. This could involve monitoring the population dynamics of these species, their migration patterns, and the availability of their food sources.
Furthermore, decision makers may need to consult with experts in the field, including biologists, ecologists, and indigenous peoples who have traditional knowledge about the Arctic ecosystem. By gathering scientific data and incorporating traditional knowledge, decision makers can make informed and responsible choices that minimize negative impacts on both caribou and polar bears.