IS IT possible to save the elephant and still have an active trade in ivory? This question has troubled scientists and conservationists for decades, and the debate is as hot as ever. Five years ago southern African countries were allowed to sell 50 tonnes of stockpiled ivory to Japan to fund conservation efforts, and in October they may get the green light for another controlled sale – unless their opponents get their way.
But the conservationists are asking the wrong question. The real issue is whether conservation is possible without trade, and I am convinced the answer is no.
If that…
