Conservationalists have developed a smartphone app that allows users to submit images and information of suspicious items for sale, in hopes of aiding law enforcement. The UN estimates that the illegal trade market is worth one million dollars more every year, and it continues to grow. Recently there has been a rise in the poaching of endangered animals and a higher demand for their body parts on the Chinese black market, raising concern about these species' survival. UK think-tank Chatham House authors say that "the illegal ivory trade has more than doubled since 2007". The Wildlife Witness app was developed by Taronga Conservation society Australia and Witness, and focuses on Southeast Asia.
If this app is making a difference that is truly great, because it puts the ability to make a difference into the large audiences out there that really care. This article also talks about the risk that people might be putting themselves into when they post on the app, because these illegal traders mean serious business about this business and don't want anyone getting in their way of making money. This event can be compared to Teddy Roosevelt's legacy of conservationism in state parks to save the American landscape, and Woodrow Wilson's later action of creating the National Park Service.
Source; http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-36226312
I think this app could be a very good thing, in helping conserve national lands, however I agree with the risks, it is dangerous to post. There must be a smarter way.
ReplyDeleteAngelique Flores 9th - i agree with becca ^
ReplyDeleteI agree with your analysis- it is great that people can help but it might be dangerous, too. And I like how you synthesized to Teddy Roosevelt.
ReplyDelete- Isabella Montague