WWF: Heritage Sites Threatened by Wildlife Trafficking Mayank Aggarwal - LiveMint
go to original April 24, 2017

Just How Large Is the Black Market Wildlife Trade? (Seeker)

Illegal poaching, logging and fishing takes place in nearly 30% of the world heritage sites, driving endangered species to the brink of extinction and putting the livelihoods and well-being of communities who depend on them at risk, said a new report released by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

Known for their iconic beauty, geology, ecology and biodiversity, natural world heritage sites across the globe support large populations of rare plant and animal species, including almost a third of the world’s remaining 3,890 wild tigers and 40% of all African elephants.

The report, ‘Not For Sale,’ stressed that illegal harvesting of species in world heritage sites degrades vital social and economic benefits.

“Between 1970 and 2012, global wildlife populations declined by almost 60% on average, and illegal harvesting of species was one of the main drivers for this decline. World heritage sites now function as the last bastion for many critically endangered species, and unless protected within world heritage sites, these species will go extinct,” it said.

“More than 90% of natural world heritage sites support recreation and tourism as well as provide jobs. Many of these benefits are dependent on the presence of CITES-listed species in these sites. Illegal exploitation of wild species also alters the natural ecosystem,” the report added.

CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

Read the rest at LiveMint

Related: To Conserve Tropical Forests and Wildlife, Protect the Rights of Indigenous People Who Rely on Them (The Conversation)

Related: Mexican Wolf Born Using Frozen Sperm Offers New Hope for Endangered Species (The Telegraph)

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