“Over the last 40 years we have lost 50% of our wildlife (WWF/ZSL).” This sobering statistic was shared by conservationist Richard Peirce to an enthralled group at the most recent marine evening at the Great White House. This statement is at the heart of Richard's belief that we need more effective conservation quickly, and that we are in a global crisis which is not given the recognition it needs. The question he raised is to what degree some wildlife conservation NGO's are presen-ting “A Dangerous Illusion”, and so is as much a part of the problem as the solution. To have quantifiable results helps in showing a true measure of the work achieved. An example Richard gave was the fact that five shark species were given protection by CITES. However, the reality is that without proper measures at sea or at ports this is a far cry from the true reality and those species supposedly protected still face threats. One of the things we can do is ensure we support credible organisations. Richard supports various charities related to the books he has authored. He shared a bit of the background of each story. These were on sale at the event and are now available at the Great White House: Giant Steps @ R200 (with R80 donated to TUSK); The Poachers Moon @ R180 (with R60 donated to Vet Rhino Fund); The UK Great White Shark Enigma @ R120 (with R40 donated to The Shark Trust). Marine evenings are hosted by Marine Dynamics and Dyer Island Cruises together with the Dyer Island Conservation Trust for the benefit of their tourism partners and other interested persons. Should you wish to be on the invitation list, please email marketing@sharkwatchsa.com).  

Brenda du Toit, Public Relations / Personal Assistant: Wilfred Chivell

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