We needed that bridge to keep the swim path free of ice, but it wasn’t there, so we had to improvise.
Is there any positive effect of the impact of global warming on the Nare Strait?
Archer: We work with Polar Bear International, and they say that because of the ice flow that continues from the Arctic, the Nare Strait may be one of the last polar bear habitats on Earth. Is that a good thing? Of course not. Because, instead of the entire Arctic, their habitat would be confined to just this one area.
Conversely, the local hunters rely on areas of broken ice to hunt polar bears, walrus, and elephant seals, so the absence of the ice bridge is helpful for them. On the other hand, it’s terrible for the world, because it’s essentially purging all the ice from the arctic.
Other than the accomplishment of the adventure, what’s your biggest takeaway from the expedition?
Archer: This story is crazy. A couple guys hop in a plane, go to swim in the arctic, and in the process learn a bunch about global warming. You can’t ignore it, so I’m listening. I find it fascinating and tragic, so if this helps get a little of that message out, that’s great. Whether people choose to listen or not, I guess we’ll see.
What’s next for you?
Fornal: Our goal is to return in May or June 2023 when the ice bridge is expected to form, then I’ll have an open path between Pim Island and Greenland with no ice in the way. I’m very excited to come back and do another swim in this amazing body of water.
Read about another of Justin Fornal’s swim adventures here.
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