The Elephant Problem
One of the most serious environmental problems being faced today is the issue of elephant conservation. In the wild, elephants are under immense amounts of pressure from poaching and habitat destruction. These two factors have drastically reduced global elephant populations to the point of endangerment. It is estimated that in Africa, the number of elephants has decreased from 1.3 million in 1979 to a mere 415,000. That’s an immense decrease in a relatively short amount of time.
In order to combat this rapid decrease, governments and organizations have implemented a variety of methods to protect the species. Elephant sanctuaries provide the animals with safe, protected habitats. Regulations and laws are often put in place to limit poaching and illegal hunting. In some nations, such as India, elephants are even considered sacred, and are given special protection. Unfortunately, while these measures do have a positive effect, they are not always enough.
Human populations have exploded to the point where they now inhabit and depend upon the same sources of resources that elephant populations do. As a result, the elephants are in more direct competition with humans for land and resources, leading to more frequent poaching and habitat destruction. Educating the public about the consequences of the issue is one way to tackle this problem. People need to be aware of the danger that their actions might be imposing on elephant populations, and actively work to preserve them.
Another way to help the elephant population is by increasing anti-poaching measures. Improved patrol and monitoring procedures, as well as harsher penalties for illegal poaching could help prevent the animals from being killed. Along with protection, it is also important to look towards long term solutions. Improving habitat conditions, and selectively breeding the elephants could help restore the population to healthy numbers.
The elephant problem is a serious one, and it requires the cooperation of individuals, communities, and governments around the world to address it. Combined with the development of stricter laws, better enforcement, and increased education, the elephant population might just have a chance at surviving.
