Wildlife Conservation

Wild Elephant Ivory Demand Reduction

Reducing global demand for ivory products is essential for ending elephant poaching and the direct welfare harms it inflicts on elephant populations.

Key Facts

Over 30000 African elephants are poached annually for ivory
China's 2017 domestic ivory trade ban significantly reduced demand
Illegal ivory continues to flow through black markets despite bans
Elephant social structure means poaching deaths disrupt surviving family members

Welfare Considerations

Elephant poaching causes direct welfare harm through violent deaths and orphaned calves left to die or survive traumatized. Family groups witnessing the killing of matriarchs show behavioral changes consistent with grief. The loss of experienced elder animals removes generational knowledge that is never recovered. Every piece of ivory purchased funds future poaching and elephant suffering.

What You Can Do

Never purchase ivory products regardless of claimed legality
Report suspected ivory trading to wildlife crime authorities
Support demand reduction campaigns in key ivory market countries
Donate to anti-poaching and elephant protection organizations