The days of traditional medicine being a dominant reason for consuming endangered species appears to be heading into history. Today consuming endangered species is all about showing off wealth to others. It’s a trend that will be discussed next week when those involved with wildlife crime will meet in Geneva.
The 65th meeting of the Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), will meet between 7th and 11th July. High on the list for discussion is the continuing poaching of elephants and rhinos.
But also n the list of discussion is the rising poaching of Asian big cats such as tigers and leopards. Until recently tiger parts and other wildlife products would be targeted at the traditional Chinese medicine market but with increases in wealth and the rise of the Asian super-rich it is status that is becoming a greater risk.
“We are seeing a disturbing shift in demand for some species from health to wealth – driven by the motivation of displaying new wealth rather than by use in traditional medicine. This is most evident with the use of rhino horn and tiger parts. This is part of a shift from traditional culture-related consumption to conspicuous consumption, which is also affecting many other species pressured by illegal trade. Illegal trade in ivory, however, appears to be largely profit-motivated, as a means of investment for the purpose of generating wealth” said John E. Scanlon, Secretary-General of CITES.
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