Export jeopardizes the survival of endangered species

Demand in rich countries is undermining the survival of endangered species.

The scientific journal Nature published a groundbreaking study. Examination of the supply chains of 15,000 products from 187 countries and the register of 25,000 endangered species.

The study highlights the fact that in countries such as Madagascar, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka and Honduras, production for export is responsible for the loss of biodiversity from 50 to 60%.

So far, these interactions are poorly understood. Demand in rich countries for coffee, timber, cocoa threatens a vulnerable species in poor countries. In Indonesia, agricultural exports threaten as many as 294 species, including tigers.

The authors of this study highlight that these results should help to label products according to their environmental impact.

source : afp, canoe