Campaign for iconic endangered species
The environment secretary has launched "If They're Gone…" campaign, to raise awareness of critically endangered species and highlight the threats posed to them.
Owen Paterson's campaign has been launched at the Cotswold Wildlife Park, involving more than 20 organisations, from zoos and safari parks to wildlife conservationists.
It will provide information about endangered species and give practical advice on how people can make a difference to the future of such animals, such as asking if products have been produced sustainably and spreading the word to your family and friends.
"Today I am launching a very important campaign," explained Mr Paterson. "'If They're Gone…' aims to raise awareness and encourage individuals to take action to protect four of the planet's most iconic species – rhinos, elephants, orangutans and tigers – from extinction."
He said that by that working together, we can show international leadership in the fight against the "disastrous" trade in wildlife and "devastating" impact of deforestation.
"I don't want future generations to think of these species in the same way I think of the dodo," he added. "We must act now."
The campaign comes after a YouGov poll that found more than half of the UK public (54 per cent) believes animals like rhinos, elephants, orangutans and tigers will be extinct in 30 year's time.
Reggie Heyworth, owner of Cotswold Wildlife Park, commented: "The recovery of the white rhino population in the 20th century from near extinction proves that we can save these magnificent animals. We must not let the poachers and the illicit traders win in the 21st century."
"If They're Gone…" will run for a full year, beginning with a focus on rhinos. The focus will switch every quarter.
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