Today’s conference in Brussels, jointly organised by the European Commission, the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), discussed the enforcement challenges and opportunities of the EU Action Plan Against Wildlife Trafficking.
One important segment of the conference focused on the implementation of behavioural science approaches to reduce the demand for illegally traded exotic pets and wildlife products. 2021 EU CITES-related seizure data highlighted the illegal trade of plant-derived ingredients used in aromatics and medicines, as well as live reptiles and birds destined for the pet trade.
Melanie Heath, Senior Director of Global Programme Office at TRAFFIC, said: “Wild species imported illegally for use and as pets is an issue that needs addressing within EU borders. Behaviour change initiatives can play a pivotal role both in terms of curbing illegal trade, and promoting sustainable, safe and legal trade, complementing EU commitments to the Convention of Biological Diversity’s Framework’s goal to reduce biodiversity loss by 2030.”
Sarah Baker Ferguson, TRAFFIC’s Nature Crimes Convergence Lead, discussed approaches to behavioural change and the importance of reducing consumer demand for illegally traded wildlife. This is outlined in the CITES Guidance on Demand Reduction, adopted at the Conference of the CITES Parties in Panama.
Ms. Ferguson added: “As a key consumer, transit and source market, the EU must give particular attention to implementing this Guidance to support social and behaviour change, with a specific focus on European consumers.”
TRAFFIC emphasised the need for a multifaceted approach to effectively combat wildlife trafficking. This includes ensuring appropriate laws are in place and perceived as a sufficient deterrent, as well as involving influential individuals to shape consumer groups’ attitudes and social norms.
TRAFFIC will provide capacity building on the CITES Demand Reduction Guidance to governmental and organisation counterparts from across the Asian continent in Singapore next month.
TRAFFIC highlighted the crucial role of behavioural science in bolstering demand reduction strategies in alignment with the objectives of the revised EU Action Plan Against Wildlife Trafficking. This is an important step in ensuring wild populations thrive in the years to come.
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