The well-being of the planet hinges on biodiversity and the wildlife that comprises its ecosystems. The existence of wildlife fosters ecological balance, and the extinction of any species has knock-on effects on the entire ecosystem of the plant. Thus, the conservation of wildlife is critical to the preservation of the planet.
However, the illegal wildlife trade poses a significant threat to the Earth’s biodiversity. Read on to learn all you need to know about the scale of the wildlife trade, its causes, why it is harmful, as well as its impact in New Zealand.
Why is the wildlife trade illegal?
Wildlife trade refers to the killing and trading of wild animals and plants. Typically, they are used to produce food products, ornamental items, medicines, leather, and furniture. While legitimate forms of wildlife trade exist, illegal wildlife trading comprises a large underground industry run by international networks, threatening the existence of rare animal and plant species.
Examples of illegal wildlife trade and their purposes include the poaching of elephants for ivory, rhinoceroses for their horns, and tigers and leopards for their skin and bones. As the global population and the volume of cross-border trade increase, so does the demand for a variety of prohibited wildlife products. Extreme poverty compounds the problem, as animal trafficking is often a valuable source of income for destitute individuals from under-developed countries.
Illegal poaching has been criminalised by international organisations, much like the trading of drugs and arms. Trading wildlife is also illegal in most countries to ensure the survival of endangered species and to restore the natural ecosystem of the planet.
The scale of the wildlife trade
Illegal animal trade ensures high-profit margins as the demand for products made from rare species increases. This demand is primarily fueled by wealthy consumers who see these products as valuable collectables, and mythical beliefs surrounding their supernatural attributes, according to WWF.
For instance, rhinoceros horns, elephant tusks, and tiger and leopard skin are in high demand in Asia. This demand threatens wild animals all over the world, especially in regions where they are native, such as China and South Africa.
Causes of illegal wildlife trade
The causes of the illegal wildlife trade include the following:
Some communities depend on certain wild animals for proteins, as well as trees and plants for fuel. In the developing world, certain populations also view certain types of wild plants and animal products as cures for various diseases. Given their value, their trade is a lucrative endeavour.
Weak regulations also allow criminals to operate large criminal networks that guarantee low risk and high returns.
