China to ban domestic ivory trade by end of 2017

In a significant move aimed at preserving the African elephant population, China has announced plans to shut down its domestic ivory market by the end of 2017. This decision comes after years of mounting international pressure, as China has been responsible for approximately 70 percent of the global ivory trade. The ban on ivory trade is seen as a crucial step in the fight against poaching and the illegal wildlife trade, which have posed serious threats to the survival of elephants in Africa. Philip Muruthi, the Vice President for Species Conservation at the African Wildlife Foundation, shed light on the implications of China's ban on ivory trade in Africa. Muruthi emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the fact that Africa is losing an alarming number of elephants each year due to poaching and trafficking. With the current rate of elephant poaching, the continent risks losing its elephant population within the next two decades. He commended China's decision to ban ivory markets by the end of 2017 as a game changer in the fight for conservation. One of the key challenges facing conservation efforts, according to Muruthi, is the realization of the critical role that wildlife and natural ecosystems play in the sustainable development of Africa. He emphasized that preserving these natural systems is essential for the well-being and economic prosperity of the continent. Muruthi also pointed out the symbolic value of elephants in Africa and underscored the need to protect these iconic species for future generations. Regarding the debate on alternatives to the ivory trade, Muruthi argued against the idea of sustaining a market that drives the extinction of wildlife species. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing conservation over short-term economic gains, stating that there are alternative livelihood options that do not involve the exploitation of endangered species. Muruthi warned against the dangers of a legal ivory market, which could potentially facilitate the laundering of illegal ivory and lead to increased poaching. The ban on ivory trade in China is expected to have far-reaching implications for conservation efforts in Africa. Muruthi called for other consumer nations to follow China's lead and cease trading in ivory. He also urged African range states to implement strong measures to combat poaching and trafficking. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of international cooperation between China and other countries to support Africa in its conservation efforts and protect its rich wildlife heritage. Overall, China's decision to ban domestic ivory trade by the end of 2017 marks a significant milestone in the fight against wildlife trafficking and the preservation of endangered species. The move is a testament to the growing global awareness of the need to protect wildlife and natural ecosystems for future generations.