An Investigation into the Domestic and International of Wildlife for Meat and Medicine in Southeast Asia
Global biodiversity is being ravaged by the commercial utilisation of wild plants and animals. In recent years this commercial trade has dramatically escalated. Once a species is targeted, trade-driven demands can rapidly diminish wild populations. In Southeast Asia, the potent combination of rising population, disposable wealth, popular demand and easy access to natural resources has had a drastic impact on the region’s mega rich biodiversity, propelling over-exploitation and illicit trade. This makes it a crucial field of study. In this critical appraisal, I present my research on a leading driver of species decline – the trading of species for meat and medicine predominantly in the Southeast Asian region from 2015-2021. My primary objective has been to augment existing knowledge of species utilised for these purposes and discover ways in which to minimise negative trade-driven impacts. My work has encompassed analysis of 15 years’ worth of seizure and CITES trade data, 60 days of market surveys, and 90 days of online markets surveys. It has also encompassed reviews of wildlife laws and policies as they pertain to species protection and utilisation. Using these methods, I have provided data on the trade of 18 species in eight countries involving over 1000 bears + unquantified parts and derivatives; over 45, 000 pangolins involving live animals, scales and meat; and other less prominent species i.e., serow – 1015 parts and derivatives, saiga antelope – unquantified quantities of horn shavings and powders, porcupines – 454 animals + 445 bezoars, pig-nosed turtles – 52, 373 live animals, and leopards – 83 animals. I have also reported on key trade hotspots and trafficking routes; legislative loopholes, enforcement strengths and weaknesses; and recommendations to reduce or disrupt over-exploitation and illegal trade. These publications provide vital insight into the meat and medicine trade in Southeast Asia. They serve as a foundation and resource for future trade work and research by conservation organisations, government agencies, independent scholars and other relevant stakeholders. The results have been used to support species threat assessments, conservation action plans and law enforcement. Perhaps most importantly the knowledge marshalled in this study can be utilised to educate and raise critical awareness among the general public whose insatiable appetite for these particular products fuels this extremely aggressive and lucrative commerce in wildlife.
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