Environment & Nature
World Wildlife day 2023: partnering to support CITES for almost 50 years
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Today, for World Wildlife Day 2023, TRAFFIC joins the celebrations of 50 years of CITES and the crucial role of ‘Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation’ in Washington D.C. On this occasion, TRAFFIC looks forward to contributing to the celebrations by showcasing a partnership story from the Himalayan mountains, ultimately addressing also wild-harvesting of CITES-listed Appendix II plant species, Jatamansi Nardostachys jatamansi and the impact this has had on local communities.
TRAFFIC was established in 1976 as a collaborative partnership by IUCN and WWF in response to the signing of the CITES treaty 50 years ago.
“Partnerships for Conservation are vital, as no organisation, and that includes the UN, can tackle the biodiversity crisis on their own. We have a million species that are threatened with extinction, and it will need all our combined efforts to reverse this. Partnerships bring together people or groups with different levels of experience and expertise, to come up with new ideas and the goal of having impact,” Ivonne Higuero, Secretary-General of CITES, in her address for the CITES World Wildlife Day video.
Over the last 50 years, wildlife trade issues have become more complex and wide-ranging. Global efforts to address wildlife trade must consider not only conservation impacts but also the socio-economic impacts on the communities and countries concerned, as well as the role these efforts must play in addressing global challenges such as climate change and health.
“The triple threats of biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, and climate change require urgent global action. No one organisation has the necessary resources and solutions – we must work together and build strong coalitions to drive change. TRAFFIC takes deliberate action to work in partnership to maximise our conservation impact and influence key target audiences to ensure that trade in wild species is legal and sustainable, for the benefit of the planet and people,” said Richard Scobey, TRAFFIC Executive Director.
Successful partnerships for conservation must find ways of connecting global frameworks, business supply chains and sustainable local community harvest, use and trade initiatives if the world is to reverse the loss of biodiversity.
A partnership story from the Himalayan mountains
At the hybrid event, Richard Scobey will explain how a TRAFFIC project, funded by the UK Government through the Darwin Initiative, worked with partners and the Nepalese government to implement good practices – including through piloting FairWild market-based tool in wild-harvesting of CITES-listed Appendix II plant species, Jatamansi Nardostachys jatamansi and the impact this has had on local communities.
Scobey will explore how this species’ trade in Nepal supports over 15,000 people’s livelihoods with an average of 25% of their annual income, how its ongoing success is critical to maintaining a climate change-sensitive habitat home to the Vulnerable* Snow Leopard, Panthera uncia, and how, now, working with our partners, local Community Forest User Groups sustainably manage the traceable supply as the leading exporting country of Jatamansi.
With TRAFFIC partners, this project has evolved into Himalayan plants for people: sustainable trade for biodiversity and development, further funded by the UK Government through the Darwin Initiative to act as a blueprint for other Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) in the country.
The learnings from the project are already being shared through other projects, such as WildCheck.info, which offers objective insights and advice on sourcing wild ingredients to support business, investment, and policy scoping.
Collaborative Partnership on Sustainable Wildlife Management also celebrates its 10th anniversary in March
As a founding partner, TRAFFIC also joins the announcement of a prominent example of a productive partnership, the Collaborative Partnership on Sustainable Wildlife Management (CPW). It is a partnership among 14 international organisations with substantive mandates and programmes to promote the sustainable use and conservation of wildlife resources that the CPW has agreed to work together.
On the occasion of World Wildlife Day, the CPW has announced its plan to work together on the following new priorities:
- To support countries to ensure that the use and trade of wildlife is legal, sustainable and safe;
- To raise awareness of the links between sustainable use of wildlife, food security, livelihoods and well-being, culture and the integrity of landscapes;
- To promote the prevention, management and reduction of human-wildlife conflict and enhance coexistence;
- To embed the sustainable use and management of wildlife in the One Health agenda; and
- To advocate for sustainable and inclusive wildlife economies.
ENDS
This project is generously supported by the United Kingdom’s Government Darwin Initiative.
NOTES
* Snow Leopard, Panthera uncia, is listed as Vulnerable on The IUCN Red List of Threatened SpeciesTM
50 years of cites success
The original CITES agreement covered only 80 species, but it has since expanded to include more than 37,000 species of animals and, as demonstrated by the Jatamansi project, plants. From the 80 signatories that signed the Convention in 1973, CITES today boasts 184 countries around the globe.
In those years, CITES has developed a rich set of tools to assist Parties in their effective implementation of the Convention – ranging from monitoring tools such as the CITES Trade Database and the Elephant Trade Information System to non-detriment findings that ensure the harvest is not to the detriment of a species.
The CITES 50-year anniversary and World Wildlife Day event is hosted by the United States Government and the CITES Secretariat, in partnership with UNDP, Jackson Wild, the International Foundation for Animal Welfare and the National Geographic Society. Event Live Stream
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Environment & Nature
Brazil’s Ambitious Plan to End Deforestation by 2030
Brazil aims to halt deforestation by 2030, setting a precedent in global climate efforts.
Brazil’s recent announcement to halt deforestation by 2030 marks a critical juncture in the nation’s environmental policy. This plan, revealed on November 3, 2026, underscores Brazil’s commitment to addressing climate change on a global scale. The government’s initiative is part of a larger framework aimed at significantly reducing carbon emissions while safeguarding the Amazon rainforest, one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.
Central to Brazil’s strategy is collaboration with international partners, a move that reflects the global dimensions of environmental challenges. By integrating efforts with other nations, Brazil seeks to leverage expertise, technology, and funding to enhance the effectiveness of its deforestation plan. This cooperative approach not only enhances the plan’s feasibility but also positions Brazil as a leader in environmental diplomacy.
The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” is a focal point of this initiative. The plan includes targeted measures to protect and preserve this crucial biome, which plays a significant role in global carbon sequestration. Protecting the Amazon is essential not only for Brazil but for the planet, as it contributes to stabilizing the global climate.
Brazil’s government has made it clear that reducing carbon emissions is a top priority. This aligns with international climate agreements and reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to mitigate the impacts of climate change. By adopting stringent measures to curb deforestation, Brazil aims to set an example for other nations, demonstrating that economic development can coexist with environmental stewardship.
The plan is not merely a domestic policy but is being touted as a model for other countries facing similar environmental challenges. By providing a blueprint for sustainable development, Brazil’s initiative could inspire widespread adoption of deforestation curbing practices. This could lead to a more coordinated global effort to combat climate change.
While the ambitious nature of Brazil’s plan is commendable, its success will depend on effective implementation and enforcement. The government’s ability to translate policy into practice will be a critical factor in achieving its 2030 deforestation goals. This will require robust monitoring systems, transparent reporting, and accountability measures to ensure compliance.
The international community’s response to Brazil’s plan has been cautiously optimistic. While many applaud the country’s proactive stance, there is a collective understanding that ongoing support and collaboration are crucial. International partners and stakeholders will play a pivotal role in providing the necessary resources and expertise to help Brazil meet its objectives.
As Brazil moves forward with its deforestation plan, the world will be watching closely. The success of this initiative could have far-reaching implications for global climate policy. If Brazil achieves its goal, it will not only transform its own environmental landscape but also reinforce the viability of ambitious climate targets worldwide.
The coming years will be telling as Brazil implements its deforestation plan. The next significant milestone will be the development of detailed action plans and the establishment of partnerships essential for the plan’s success. All eyes will be on Brazil as it strives to fulfill its 2030 commitment, with the potential to reshape global environmental strategies.
Environment & Nature
Green Climate Fund’s $140 Million Boost for African Green Hydrogen
Green Climate Fund approves $140 million for green hydrogen projects in South Africa and Namibia, advancing renewable energy in Africa.
On October 29, 2026, the Green Climate Fund (GCF) announced its approval of $140 million in funding for green hydrogen projects in South Africa and Namibia. This substantial investment underscores a pivotal move towards renewable energy development in Africa, as the continent grapples with the twin challenges of energy security and climate change. The funding is poised to catalyze the growth of green hydrogen, a clean energy source that is gaining traction as a viable pathway to decarbonization.
The GCF’s decision marks a strategic investment aimed at harnessing the region’s abundant renewable resources. Both South Africa and Namibia possess significant potential for solar and wind energy, essential for producing green hydrogen. By tapping into these resources, the projects aim to create a sustainable energy supply while reducing dependence on fossil fuels, aligning with broader global efforts to mitigate climate change.
Green hydrogen is increasingly recognized for its role in reducing carbon emissions. Unlike traditional hydrogen production methods that rely on natural gas, green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources. This process results in zero carbon emissions, making it an attractive option for industries seeking to lower their environmental footprint. The GCF’s investment reflects a growing confidence in green hydrogen’s potential to transform energy systems.
The projects in South Africa and Namibia are not just about reducing emissions; they also promise significant socio-economic benefits. By enhancing energy security, these initiatives can provide a reliable power supply, crucial for economic development. Additionally, the projects are expected to generate employment opportunities, contributing to regional economic growth. This dual focus on environmental and economic benefits positions the projects as models of sustainable development.
The timing of the GCF’s announcement coincides with increased global interest in renewable energy investments. As countries around the world strive to meet their climate targets, Africa’s renewable energy potential is coming into sharper focus. The $140 million infusion from the GCF sends a strong signal to other investors about the continent’s viability as a hub for clean energy innovation.
Fuel Cells Works highlights the broader implications of such investments, noting that green hydrogen could play a critical role in Africa’s energy transition. By leveraging the continent’s vast renewable resources, green hydrogen projects can help bridge the gap between energy demand and supply, fostering a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.
The GCF’s commitment to these projects aligns with its mission to support developing countries in their climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. By targeting Africa, the Fund is addressing a critical need for investment in regions that are disproportionately affected by climate change yet have contributed the least to its causes. This reflects a shift towards more equitable climate action.
As the projects move forward, they will be closely watched for their impact on local communities and the environment. Success in South Africa and Namibia could pave the way for similar initiatives across the continent, establishing a blueprint for green hydrogen development in other regions. The outcome of these projects will likely influence future funding decisions and policy frameworks related to renewable energy.
In the coming months, stakeholders will be keenly observing the implementation phases, looking for tangible outcomes that demonstrate the viability and scalability of green hydrogen as a cornerstone of Africa’s renewable energy strategy. The GCF’s investment sets a precedent that could drive further commitments from international donors and private sector players eager to support Africa’s clean energy ambitions.
Environment & Nature
Scotland’s Rewilding Revolution: Ecological Benefits and Global Influence
Scotland’s rewilding initiatives are transforming landscapes and ecosystems, offering ecological benefits and inspiring global conservation efforts. Explore the impact and future prospects of this bold environmental strategy.
In the misty highlands of Scotland, a quiet revolution is taking place. Rewilding, a concept that aims to restore ecosystems to their natural state, has been gaining momentum, transforming vast areas into thriving habitats. This ambitious movement is not only reshaping the Scottish landscape but also providing significant ecological benefits that echo far beyond its borders.
Central to the rewilding efforts are projects like the Cairngorms Connect and Trees for Life, which focus on restoring native forests and reintroducing keystone species such as the Eurasian lynx and beavers. These initiatives aim to enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem services, and combat climate change by sequestering carbon in regenerating woodlands.
The ecological benefits are manifold. By reintroducing native species, these projects help restore natural processes and food webs, leading to healthier and more resilient ecosystems. The return of beavers, for instance, has been transformative; their dam-building activities create wetlands that support a myriad of plant and animal species, increase water retention, and reduce flood risks.
Moreover, rewilding contributes to soil restoration and enhances carbon capture. As diverse plant communities establish themselves, they improve soil structure and fertility, which in turn supports a broader range of wildlife. This natural regeneration process not only bolsters biodiversity but also plays a critical role in mitigating climate change.
However, the journey is not without its challenges. Critics argue that rewilding can conflict with traditional land uses, such as farming and grouse shooting, which are economically important to local communities. Balancing these interests requires careful negotiation and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure that rewilding projects are both ecologically and socially sustainable.
Looking ahead, Scotland’s rewilding initiatives hold immense potential to inspire similar efforts globally. By demonstrating the ecological and economic viability of rewilding, Scotland could galvanize international conservation strategies and contribute to global biodiversity targets.
As these wild landscapes continue to evolve, they offer a glimpse into a future where humans and nature coexist in harmony, each thriving in a supportively interconnected world. Scotland’s rewilding efforts may well be the blueprint for ecological restoration worldwide, as nations grapple with the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.
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