States Ban Wildlife Trafficking

Issue

The demand for elephant ivory and rhino horn as well as for other exotic species, driven by China, Japan, the Philippines, the United States, and other countries, has created a massive international, largely illegal market that is having detrimental economic, social and environmental effects. 

Action

NCEL prioritized the power of states to ban the trafficking of endangered species, including rhino horns and elephant ivory. NCEL partnered with allied organizations about the importance of state policies to curb the practice. 

Outcome

A total of 12 states passed laws banning wildlife trafficking within state borders.