Airports given more support in fight against wildlife trafficking

The trade of illegal fauna and flora is estimated to have an annual value of up to US$23bn  

Airports Council International (ACI), a global trade representative, has published guidance for airports in the battle to combat the illegal trade of protected species of wild animals and plants around the world. 

According to ACI, Elephants are often poached for their ivory and tigers for their skins and bones but other species, such as rosewood, pangolins, birds, reptiles and marine turtles are also among commonly trafficked species.    

The published handbook details case studies on work and strategies airports have taken to combat this challenge and draws on experience of operators which have taken an active role against wildlife trafficking. The document also provides guidance to facilities, irrespective of their size or geography, on their role and the options available to support industry action, including coordination with industry partners and law enforcement agencies.    

ACI
Photo ACI

Luis Felipe de Oliveira, ACI world director general, said: “Wildlife trafficking is a global crime that can touch any airport and requires concerted efforts and a coordinated global response to combat it and protect species for future generations. The aviation industry is ideally placed to support this fight and, by working with our partners to deliver resources such as this handbook, we continue to help raise awareness and encourage the community to support the protection of biodiversity.” 

The work by ACI has been developed with the support of the USAID Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species (ROUTES) partnership to assist airport in addressing these issues. 

Michelle Owen, ROUTES lead, added: “ACI’s Combatting Wildlife Trafficking Handbook provides a great opportunity for airports globally to understand the role they can play in preventing this transnational crime. We welcome ACI’s continued efforts and commitment to providing information and resources to help their members address wildlife trafficking through the aviation sector,”  

In addition to the handbook, ROUTES partners continue to develop a range of resources to support the aviation industry including webinars, training and networking.