Because they reproduce very slowly and reach sexual maturity only in their early teens, elephant populations recover slowly and are still a fraction of their pre-ivory trade levels. In some heavily forested Central African states, elephant numbers are not known. We are asking South Africa to seriously consider withdrawing its proposal. More international pressure has come from the England-based Born Free Foundation. Founders Virginia McKenna and her son Bill Travers have launched a world-wide petition on their website to stop the proposal.
Whales are also in the limelight.
Bell said South Africa should oppose proposals by Japan and Norway to downlist certain whale species. Zero catch limits for commercial whaling have been in effect though Japan and Norway continue to defy the ban. The great white shark is also centre stage. Australia and the United States have proposed it be placed on appendix 1. It is already legally protected in South African, Namibian, US, Maldives, Australian and New Zealand waters.