Devastating Impact Of Ivory Trade On Elephant Population

Elephants, evolved over millions of years, serve an important role in Nepali as well as the global ecosystem. They protect their families, mark territories, and aid the environment. However, these animals’ natural tool, the tusk, has been the focus of a devastating illegal trade for centuries.

 Scale of ivory trade

A 2015 report by the World Wildlife Fund revealed the staggering scale of the illegal ivory trade, valued in the billions. This trade has led to severe consequences for elephant populations and international law enforcement. In January 2018, Hong Kong lawmakers, responding to public pressure, voted to ban the ivory trade. Yet, in Japan and other parts of Asia, the trade remains legal.

The legal ivory trade for artifacts and medicine has wreaked havoc on elephant populations. Communities, law enforcement, and governments are caught in the crossfire of this lucrative but destructive trade.

Elephant poaching remains a critical issue, threatening their survival. Despite global efforts to curb this illegal activity, recent news highlights the ongoing challenges and the need for continued vigilance.

Scale of crisis

Elephant populations across Asia and Africa are under severe threat due to poaching. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), African forest elephants are now critically endangered. The number of wild elephants has plummeted by more than 86  per cent over the past three decades, while savanna elephant populations have declined by at least 60 per cent over the past 50 years.

Medicinal uses 

Ivory is used in the medical field to create ectoparasiticides, medicines that treat parasite infections, head lice, scabies, river blindness, and various types of diarrhea and worm infections. However, alternative chemicals can perform these functions just as well, if not better, eliminating the need to kill elephants for their tusks.

Impact on elephant populations

Each year, approximately 20,000 elephants are killed by humans. A male elephant’s tusks can weigh over 250 pounds, with black market prices reaching up to $1,500 per pound. This relentless poaching has led to a significant decline in elephant populations, pushing some species towards the brink of extinction.

Legal framework in Nepal

In Nepal, the trade in elephant parts is strictly prohibited by law, with severe penalties for violators. The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act bans wildlife hunting without permits and restricts domesticated animals from grazing in the wild to prevent disease transmission.

According to the Institute of Animal Law of Asia, anyone who illegally kills, injures, sells, purchases, transfers, or obtains protected wildlife, including elephants, faces fines or imprisonment of 5-15 years, or both. This stringent legal framework aims to deter poachers and protect wildlife.

International cooperation

Protecting elephants requires international cooperation, as these animals do not recognise national borders. Dr. Ben Okita, co-chair of the IUCN elephant specialist group, emphasises the need for cross-border collaboration to address poaching and habitat fragmentation. Effective land use planning and cooperation between governments and local communities are essential to reversing the decline in elephant populations.

Poverty and corruption factors

A significant factor driving elephant poaching is poverty. In many regions, local communities poach as a source of income. Addressing poverty and providing alternative livelihoods are critical to reducing poaching. Additionally, corruption within law enforcement and government agencies can hinder anti-poaching efforts. Strengthening governance and ensuring transparency are vital steps in combating this issue.

Success stories and hope

Despite the grim statistics, there are reasons for optimism. Efforts to reduce poaching have shown positive results in some areas. For instance, elephant researchers reporting to CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) found that average mortality levels due to poaching fell from a peak of 10 per cent in 2011 to less than 4 per cent in 2017. This decline indicates that concerted efforts can make a significant impact.

Importance of awareness

Public awareness and education play a crucial role in conservation efforts. Campaigns and events like “Toss the Tusk” help inform the public about the devastating effects of the ivory trade and encourage responsible behavior. By understanding the impact of their actions, individuals can make informed choices that support conservation initiatives.

Conservation efforts

Organisations like Nepal government, Stand Up 4 Elephants, and the World Wildlife Fund are actively working to protect elephants. These organisations focus on various conservation strategies including anti-poaching patrols, community education, and habitat preservation.

Global perspective

Globally, efforts to combat the illegal ivory trade are gaining momentum. Countries are tightening their laws, increasing penalties, and enhancing enforcement measures. International cooperation is crucial in tracking and dismantling poaching networks and illegal trade routes.

Public awareness and education play a vital role in conservation efforts. Campaigns and advocacy work by organisations help to spread the message and garner support for stricter laws and better enforcement.

Conclusion

The illegal trade in elephant parts is a complex issue that requires global cooperation and stringent enforcement of laws to protect these majestic creatures and their habitats. Understanding and adhering to these laws is crucial for anyone involved in this field. Protecting elephants and their rights is not just a legal obligation but a moral one.

(Shila is a researcher devoting her writings on wildlife conservation.)