Asia must act to avoid eating pangolins out of existence
The recent discovery of the Indo-Burmese pangolin species has sparked concerns that legal loopholes could increase the risk of poaching and illegal trade for these already vulnerable mammals. Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals globally, driven by high demand in Asia, where they are used in traditional medicine and consumed as a delicacy.
Despite efforts by China to protect its native pangolin species, a newly established quota for pangolin scales for medical use, coupled with the continued inclusion of scales in patented traditional medicine formulas, creates uncertainty about the country's commitment to eliminating the trade. Historically, pangolin exploitation is rooted in Asian cultural practices, but sustainable local consumption has transformed into a large-scale slaughter to meet relentless demand.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
The recent discovery of the Indo-Burmese pangolin species has sparked concerns that legal loopholes could increase the risk of poaching and illegal trade for these already vulnerable mammals. Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals globally, driven by high demand in Asia, where they are used in traditional medicine and consumed as a delicacy.
Despite efforts by China to protect its native pangolin species, a newly established quota for pangolin scales for medical use, coupled with the continued inclusion of scales in patented traditional medicine formulas, creates uncertainty about the country's commitment to eliminating the trade. Historically, pangolin exploitation is rooted in Asian cultural practices, but sustainable local consumption has transformed into a large-scale slaughter to meet relentless demand.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
