The Chukotka Arctic Scientific Centre was established to carry out research on Red Data Book animals, minimise conflicts between polar bears and humans and control whale hunting, the centre’s head Denis Litovka told RIA Novosti.

“One of the centre’s main tasks is to set up a network of public environmental inspectors to minimise conflicts between polar bears and humans in Chukotka,” Litovka noted.

According to him, the centre will also provide aid to local “bear patrols.”

The idea of setting up a Polar Bear Centre in Chukotka arose in 2018, but it was decided that polar bears alone would be too narrow a focus for its work with other Red Data Book species needing to be studied in addition to polar bears, Litovka added.

As well as marine mammals, the centre will study land animals, birds and issues related to the environment and changes in permafrost. The centre runs on federal and regional money and will also apply for grants. It was established by the Chukotka department of natural resources and environment.