The trends
on other sources of stress for polar
bears seem to be in encouraging directions, with Russia introducing more control
on hunting (illegal and
legal) and
research on potentially harmful industrial chemicals showing declines.
This body of
research argues for the recognition of everyday
legal needs and responding investment in affordable, community - based
legal outreach, pointing to the very considerable social costs of non-resolution that are
borne by social and health services, income supports, disability plans, and employment insurance, other social services (more information and supporting publications can be found
on the Forum website).