The handbook promotes coordination with industry partners to attack this crime.
Monday, June 28 2021 – 18:49
The Airports Council International (ACI) published the Combatting Wildlife Trafficking Handbook to help air terminals identify and combat the illegal trade in protected species of wild animals and plants.
The guide promotes a comprehensive approach that encompasses coordination with industry partners, such as airlines, and law enforcement agencies (customs or border protection) to attack this illegal activity that generates about 23 billion of dollars annually.
Airports around the world can address this problem by studying detailed case studies on the comprehensive work and strategies of other terminals involved in this global challenge.
For example, the Galapagos Ecological Airport in Ecuador uses X-ray machines to search for wildlife among passengers’ belongings, while the Kenya Airports Authority has created an anonymous hotline to allow people to report suspected prohibited items, including illegal wildlife products.
“As we continue to navigate the Covid-19 pandemic, airports are beginning to see a resurgence in demand so I believe now is the time to act. I encourage air terminals to join us in our commitment to combat wildlife trafficking, ”said Luis Felipe de Oliveira, director of the Council.
This manual was produced in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Association to Reduce Opportunities for the Illicit Transportation of Endangered Species (ROUTES).
Read the original coverage from A21 (Mexico) at https://a21.com.mx/index.php/aeropuertos/2021/06/28/lanza-aci-manual-contra-trafico-de-flora-y-fauna
Informing and sharing news on marine life, flora, fauna and conservation in the Galápagos Islands since 2017
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