Ten Suggestions for Wildlife Conservation
Wildlife Specialist Dr Reza Khan, the former Principal of Dubai Safari Park, has provided 10 recommendations for conserving Bangladesh’s wildlife.
By taking these steps, Bangladesh can create a sustainable future where wildlife thrives and supports biodiversity and ecological balance.
He made these suggestions online at a discussion meeting organized by the Bangladesh Forest Department on 13 March afternoon. The suggestions given by Dr Reza Khan are: –
- Establish a National Wildlife Policy
The government should create and enforce a National Wildlife Policy that defines clear strategies for wildlife conservation, protection, and management using technology. The policy will address habitat conservation, human-wildlife conflict, poaching, illegal wildlife trade and climate change adaptation.
- Creating an independent wildlife conservation department is essential
A separate autonomous wildlife conservation authority should be established, distinct from the forest department, to focus exclusively on wildlife conservation and protection.
This department needs sufficient funding, skilled staff, and strong enforcement authority, including control over both forest and non-forest areas.
- Strengthening strict enforcement of laws against wildlife crime
It is crucial to reform and strictly enforce the Wildlife (Conservation and Protection) Act, 2012. Preventing illegal wildlife trade, increasing anti-poaching patrols, fines and surveillance will help prevent further loss of biodiversity.
- Wildlife Education and Awareness Raising
Introduce wildlife conservation in all schools, madrasas, colleges, and universities, from kindergartens to secondary education. Establish wildlife conservation departments in all public universities and all departmental universities or government colleges.
Launch a nationwide campaign using TV, social media, and community programs to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife. A weekly wildlife conservation program should air on national television to raise awareness in remote villages.
- Promote community-based conservation
Involve local communities in eco-tourism, afforestation programs and alternative livelihoods to reduce dependence on wildlife resources. Establish incentive-based conservation programs where communities benefit from protecting wildlife.
- Strengthen protected areas and wildlife corridors
Expand and properly manage wildlife sanctuaries and marine protected areas. Create and restore wildlife corridors to ensure safe migration and genetic diversity.
- Enter into cooperation agreements with NGOs and international organizations and businesses
Partner with WWF, IUCN and other conservation organizations to bring in expertise, technology and financial support. Adoption of best conservation practices from other countries is essential. Force domestic large businesses to take up wildlife conservation projects from their CSR funds/social responsibility funds.
- Climate change adaptation for wildlife
Implement mangrove restoration projects to protect coastal wildlife from sea level rise. Develop wildlife-friendly agricultural and urban development policies to prevent habitat destruction.
- Promote the use of research and technology
Invest in wildlife research, monitoring, and data collection to assess population trends and threats. Use modern technology such as GPS tracking, camera traps, and drones to manage wildlife.
- Encourage citizen participation
Encourage volunteer, citizen science, and student-led conservation initiatives. Establish wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centers where individuals can report injured or trafficked animals.
However, despite the many obstacles, the above 10 steps are very timely in saving wildlife from becoming endangered or extinct.
