As we mark Save Vaquita Day, it’s a terrible truth that with each passing day the clock counts down ever-closer to the extinction of the world’s most threatened marine mammal – estimates vary but the credible consensus is that fewer than 30 of these tiny porpoises may remain in the Upper Gulf of California, Mexico
In what is widely regarded as the single biggest step to end the slaughter of elephants, China has confirmed the full closure of its domestic ivory market, a move with the potential to be a genuine game-changer in terms of ending the voracious consumer demand which has directly spurred a massive illegal trade in ivory
After years of anticipation, months of preparation and two hectic weeks in South Africa, the 17th Conference of the Parties (CoP17) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) draws to a close. Here's a summary of some of the key outcomes of the conference
At the CITES CoP17 meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, countries pledged to do more to curb poaching and illicit trade in totoaba fish which threatens the survival of the critically endangered vaquita porpoise. This is a positive sign but international cooperation is vital to ensure enforcement actions take place.
A recent survey by the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) of marine product sellers in southern China and Hong Kong revealed a continuing illegal trade in a banned fish species which, if left unchecked, will lead to the extinction of the vaquita – the world’s most endangered marine mammal.
A key recommendation directed to the Hong Kong authorities to counter the illicit trade in Siamese rosewood has finally been accepted. In an EIA-hosted event at CITES, the Hong Kong Management Authority announced that enactment of the legislation has been scheduled for November