Emirates A380s join campaign against illegal wildlife trade
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In a bid to support the campaign against illegal trafficking of wildlife, two Emirates A380 jets took to the skies this week with a special livery.
The aircraft showcased the new paint work in support of United for Wildlife, a global collaboration that unites efforts of the world’s leading wildlife charities in a fight against illegal wildlife trade.
The livery features some of the planet’s wildlife threatened by poaching and illegal wildlife trade. The objective is also to raise awareness of illegal wildlife trade and communicate need for urgent action.
Rt Hon Lord Hague of Richmond, chair of United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce said: “We welcome efforts and commitment made by Emirates to combat illegal wildlife trade. This is more than just an environmental issue. The illegal wildlife trade is now recognized as a serious and organised transnational crime. It drives corruption, is linked to money laundering and can damage economic development in many of the world’s poorest countries and communities.”
Sir Tim Clark, president Emirates Airline further added: “Many animals, in particular African elephants, rhinos, tigers, and pangolins, are under extreme pressure because of an unprecedented spike in illegal wildlife trade. The world is in a global poaching crisis, and everyone has to do their part to stop this, before it is too late.”
Consumers too, can contribute in a big way, by boycotting products made from parts of these endangered animals and discouraging others from doing so.
Emirates’ two A380s will be operating flights this week. The first one departed for London and a second will operate to Mauritius, each wearing a different design featuring endangered wildlife.
The airline is also collaborating with international organisations to train and better equip its ground and cargo staff to detect and deal with illegal wildlife products in transit. As required paperwork for movement of some wildlife products is often forged, Emirates also made the decision to ban trophy shipments.
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