If you’ve seen Earth or An Inconvenient Truth, or you’ve read any reports about global warming lately, you probably know how fragile the Arctic ecosystem is today. The bowhead whale, walrus, sea bird, polar bear and many other species are literally facing life-or-death struggles as their habitats change and decrease.

These problems, caused by global warming, industrialization, and ocean acidification, are largely exacerbated by human activity, which means that we have the power to take measures to harm—or to help.

Right now, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce is deciding on whether or not to allow these waters to be open to industrial fishing. Such activity would further deplete the Arctic area, wiping out these creatures’ food sources even more and causing them additional stress—as well as death.

And these creatures aren’t alone in the perils they face; many of us forget that there are people living in the Arctic as well who depend upon the continuous health of their land and water. This industrial fishing would harm their way of life, too.

The Arctic Fishery Management Plan was passed in February by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council. A unanimous vote, it was a science-based decision to close the Arctic to industrial fishing in order to protect the ecosystem and its residents.  Not only does it benefit them; it also provides a great example for the international community on how we can protect, respect and responsibly care for the already-receding Arctic. The decision on whether or not to fully approve this plan now rests with the Secretary of Commerce.

To send Commerce Secretary Locke a comment asking for the protection of these waters from industrial fishing, click here. All you have to do is enter your name and address, then click “Send This Message.” The PEW Environment Group will send it automatically from their action page.

However, if you choose to personalize your message, it can have an even greater impact. It’s easy to do if you like; you can talk about why the rising ocean levels and depleting Arctic surface area should be a concern to people worldwide, or how the Commerce Secretary has the unique opportunity to set an example for the global community, and can serve as a leader for environmental stewardship and positive action.

Let’s not allow these creatures and the people of the Arctic to suffer when we know we can do something about it.