WildAid

Our next WildAid Live event is one week away! 📆 Join us next Thursday, September 19th, at 11 am PST/2 pm EST for a 50-minute livestream where we'll dive into exciting updates on our latest campaigns motivating millions to take action and protect wildlife and their habitats. As climate change increasingly threatens endangered species, individual actions have never been more crucial. Together, we can turn small steps into powerful change, reducing global warming and giving wildlife a fighting chance to thrive. 🌎 Register here: https://lnkd.in/gNWmK4CQ

Did you know? There’s a marine “superhighway” in the Eastern Tropical Pacific that keeps marine life big and small on the move! The Eastern Tropical Pacific Seascape is a vibrant marine paradise nestled at the convergence of Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador’s coastal waters. This unique region is defined by its exceptional geological formations, deep-sea trenches, and rich biodiversity. Over 300 species of fish—including sharks, mantas, and tunas—along with humpback whales, blue whales, and sea turtles, use this area as a migratory swim-way and feeding ground. This marine superhighway is partially protected by a series of bordering Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) that provide safe passage and partial habitat connectivity for marine wildlife. The Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor (CMAR) is a regional initiative led by Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador to create a sustainably managed biological corridor connecting these MPAs. At WildAid, we are committed to supporting the efforts of CMAR countries to combat illegal fishing, poaching, and other threats that are destroying these fragile ecosystems. In partnership with these nations, we provide expertise and training in marine conservation, enforcement, and surveillance to ensure the long-term success of this vital region. 🌊

A new study confirms that rhino horn holds no real health benefits, despite its deep roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The research also revealed that rhino horn contains potentially toxic minerals. Composed of keratin—the same protein found in human hair and nails—rhino horn is not worth the devastating impact on rhino populations. We recognize that changing consumer behavior, especially when tied to deeply ingrained cultural practices, takes time. That’s why we remain committed to partnering with local communities in areas where the demand for wildlife products is highest to change habits and raise awareness. We’re also proud to support TCM practitioners in transitioning to sustainable, herbal alternatives that protect endangered species while respecting cultural traditions.

Good news for conservation! 🌿 Cameroon’s new forestry and wildlife law marks a historic milestone in protecting the nation's rich biodiversity. Passed in July, this updated legislation strengthens protections for forests and wildlife while respecting the rights of local communities. With input from stakeholders over many years, the law introduces stricter wildlife crime penalties, a sustainable framework for wildlife management, and enhanced measures to protect natural habitats. This is key as Cameroon is home to numerous endangered species, including 3 species of pangolin, and its vast forests are crucial for sequestering carbon and combating climate change globally. Huge congrats to Cameroonian authorities on this milestone! 👏 We're dedicated to supporting the law's implementation and continuing our collaborative efforts to ensure a sustainable and thriving environment for future generations of Cameroonians. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gyFSHK2C

WildAid is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Intuitive AI that will drive sustainability and promote conservation worldwide! Beginning this September, Intuitive AI will showcase WildAid’s U.S. climate literacy campaigns throughout its extensive sustainable advertising network. Intuitive AI's Oscar Sort is an AI-powered recycling assistant placed in high-traffic public spaces to help reduce waste and carbon emissions by making it easy, engaging, and educational. Oscar will run WildAid’s ads, guiding consumers on how to live more sustainably in areas such as shopping, food, home, and transportation. WildAid CEO Meaghan Brosnan says, “Partnering with Intuitive AI will strengthen our mission to reduce human impact on the planet and wildlife. Oscar will help us engage and educate on a whole new level.” "By supporting conservation champions, we aim to turn everyday consumers into sustainability superstars,” adds Hassan Murad, CEO and Co-Founder of Intuitive AI. More info on this exciting partnership to come!

Whale sharks are a marvel of the ocean, with each individual boasting a unique pattern of spots, akin to a fingerprint. These slow-moving, filter-feeding giants can live up to 100 years, playing a crucial role in marine ecosystems by maintaining the balance of plankton levels. Yet, despite their peaceful nature, whale sharks are facing serious threats. Like other shark species, their fins and meat are often sought after, and squalene—a compound found in their liver oil—is still used in some cosmetics, further endangering these gentle giants. Overfishing, habitat loss, and unregulated tourism add to their growing challenges. We work with local partners across the world to improve the enforcement of priority marine areas, which protect critical whale shark habitats and migration paths, and by reducing the demand for shark products through public awareness campaigns. Together, we can help ensure these gentle giants grace our oceans for generations to come. #InternationalWhaleSharkDay #WhaleSharks

We’re thrilled to welcome Wes Carter to WildAid’s Board of Directors! With his commitment to conservation and sustainability, we look forward to working together to advance our mission to protect wildlife and vital habitats worldwide.

Mangrove forests are essential to the survival of life on land and at sea. These tropical trees provide safe harbor for 341 threatened species worldwide. They are home to roughly one-third of all marine species, and their root systems provide vital nurseries and feeding grounds for marine wildlife such as sharks, manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, rays, reptiles, and birds. In Coastal Ecuador, mangroves depend on the red crabs that make their homes in the trees’ tangled roots. Crabs shred and bury the mangrove trees’ fallen, decaying leaves in their burrows, aerating and enriching the soil with vital nutrients, and ensuring the mangrove forests thrive. 🦀 Learn about local communities' commitment to protecting crabs during their vulnerable mating season—and their dedication to safeguarding the mangrove forests as a whole: https://lnkd.in/gaEXXDQ5

Thailand’s shark fin consumption has dropped significantly—by 34% in just six years. Yet, demand persists, with over half of urban Thai citizens reporting they are still planning to try shark in the future, and as sharks are increasingly being used in a variety of products, including pet food and treats. Mongabay unpacks WildAid's latest report on Thailand's demand for shark fin, the changing market for shark products, and the conservation efforts needed moving forward:

We’re loving the rise of the #UnderconsumptionCore trend, which encourages a move away from overconsumption by embracing sustainable practices like reusing, repurposing, and reducing waste. This movement isn’t just about buying less—it’s about transforming our consumption habits to build a sustainable future. 🌍🌱 Swipe 👉 for tips on how to take part, from making intentional purchases to creatively reusing old items. Let’s lead by example and inspire others to join this movement for a healthier, more resilient planet!