Shows
The Art Of ConservationConservation News 07-05-2023We recap the vicuna vs rhino horn trade debate from episode 6.National Geographic cut all staff writers – and no-one is happy about it.Rhino stockpiles were raided in South Africa. Can't say we didn't see this coming... And again it's an inside job. New York DEC puts confiscated ivory on display, but is it a good idea?Conservation struggles in UK and Scotland, illustrating again that the challenge is indeed global.GEF launches new fund that raises hope, but will the funds get to those who need it most?2023-07-051h 00
The Art Of ConservationS3 E6 - Conservation News 06-22-2023The trade in the South American vicūna is often used as an example of how lifting trade bans can help people and animals alike, but is it a fair comparison for the rhino horn trade debate? Namibia is planning a mass dehorning. Is the government of that country bolstering rhino horn stockpiles ahead of their next effort to open trade? A recent study answers the question of what impact does dehorning have on rhino behavior. Rhino poaching gang sentenced to terms ranging from 16-20 years. Two documentaries to watch out for: Rhinoman follows the story of what it is l...2023-06-271h 02
The Art Of ConservationS3 E5 - Conservation News 06-06-2023Poaching kingpin arrested.A recent report highlights the dynamic nature of global rhino horn seizures, with interesting results. With COVID having little impact on the size and frequency of seizures, we ask, yet again, why are we not inspecting and accounting for stockpiled rhino horn?Poached rhino horn transport is changing. Transit routes are evolving but what is influencing this?Yet another article about the claimed values of trophy hunting ignores the consistent fight to deregulate these industries, rather than supporting regulations that would hold the industry accountable and measurable in their social...2023-06-061h 04
The Art Of ConservationS3 E4 - Conservation News 05-24-2023A break through in the rhino poaching crisis with an arrest in South Africa’s eastern cape province. What will it mean to poaching activity in the area?Do new game fences work to slow poaching? We question the recent investments in new security fences to protect rhino. A recent and seemingly bizarre series of events has seen a dramatic intervention with the new proposed changes to TOPS (Threatened Or Protected Species) regulations. What actually happened and what does it mean for conservation efforts in Southern Africa?Is it right for the state to...2023-05-241h 04
The Art Of ConservationS3 E3 - Conservation News 05-09-2023Episode 2 of this season attracted a lot of interest and comment, we answer your questions in this episode:The Platinum Rhino auction fails to solicit a successful bidder – what’s next for Hume and his rhino? We give the updates.Rhino Horn trade is unlikely, but the current revenue models are also flawed – what are the challenges in innovating a new approach where renewables, carbon markets, ESG investments and the like are combined? Why is trade so challenging, surely we can flood the market? We discuss the challenges in opening the rhino horn trade a...2023-05-0954 min
The Art Of ConservationS3 E2 - Conservation News 04-26-2023With the world’s largest rhino breeding facility up for auction, the team discusses the potential outfall of this huge event.Love him or hate him, John Hume plays an important role in rhino conservation. His often brash commitment to opening rhino horn trade has no doubt contributed to the divisiveness in rhino conservation., but one thing that cannot be denied is his success in breeding rhino on an enormous scale. With public opinion divided as ever, it is important to understand how we got to this position, why the prior attempts at soliciting investment failed, and wha...2023-04-261h 05
The Art Of ConservationS3 E1 - Conservation News 04-12-2023Munu the blind black rhino finds a new home.The team contemplates the “region beta paradox” as a reason why we don’t see sufficient urgency and how this influences donor expectations in conservation circles. Julian Rademeyr’s latest report showcases a grim reality of corruption and its influence on wildlife crime around Kruger National Park. In the weeks after the release, alleged kingpin, Chief Clyde Mnisi, is assassinated and shortly thereafter his wife is gunned down in her home. We explore this decentralization of poaching as a result of the disruptions to syndicates in Kruger an...2023-04-1200 min
Do One Better with Alberto Lidji in Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social EntrepreneurshipShannon Elizabeth & Simon Borchert on protecting rhinos, strengthening the conservation workforce, leveraging the celebrity angle, engaging with legislators + the Shannon Elizabeth FoundationShannon Elizabeth is an actor who is passionate about animal conservation. She has starred in over 50 films and television shows, including American Pie, Scary Movie, Love Actually and That 70’s Show. Simon Borchert has a strong family history of animal conservation in South Africa. Together, this dynamic husband and wife duo are protecting rhinos and strengthening the field of conservation through the work of the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation.
We learn about the foundation’s operations, programs, advocacy with legislators and we gain insight into leveraging the celebrity platform to drive forward positive change and get the message acros...2022-07-2547 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E23 - The Weekly News 07-13-2022 with Simon Borchert, Shannon Elizabeth & Peter BorchertMinister Barbara Creecy, South Africa’s minister of the Department of Environment Forest and Fisheries, recently released the much-anticipated white paper that addresses the “One Welfare” commitment she made over a year ago. And it is a big step forward. We unpack the white paper and what it means for conservation efforts as well as issues of sentience and socio-economic transformation. Research suggests that Botswana’s reintroduction of trophy hunting has not worked in its promise to offer sustainable economic opportunity for communities. A recent shark killing contest is attracting growing public criticism – and rightly so! We share...2022-07-131h 02
The Art Of ConservationS2 E22 - The Weekly News 06-01-2022 with Shannon Elizabeth, Peter Borchert & Simon BorchertPeter struggles with Covid, Simon can’t remember where he is, and Shannon holds down the fort.5 African countries sign the Hwange declaration - a commitment to pressure CITES to open trade in ivory for one fire sale. The concept is fundamentally flawed and as usual, this for the trade wrap their arguments up in poorly researched or blatantly inaccurate data - we explain why.Deforestation accelerates in Brazil. We unpack the empty promises made at COP26 in Glasgow last year.Should you be able to buy a puppy from a commercial breeder in...2022-06-0159 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E21 - The Weekly News 05-25-2022 with Shannon Elizabeth, Peter Borchert & Simon BorchertRob Barber from Golden Africa Safaris in Botswana. Rob gives us updates on travel trends after COVID. Join Rob in the Okavango Delta - Go on a one-of-a-kind safari in Botswana June 9-17, 2022 with Golden Africa Safaris! Our listeners get 10% off with the discount code “SEF”. Green Century Funds are holding Home Depot accountable for where they source their plywood. But are Home Depot’s shareholders supporting this proposal?Are K9s effective in the illegal wildlife trade? What about dog bots? Kilo9Academy is not only training and placing anti-poaching dogs in the fiel...2022-05-2552 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E20 - The Weekly News 05-19-2022 with Shannon Elizabeth, Peter Borchert & Simon BorchertSimon joins us from the US through modern technology.Poachers tranquilize rhino to remove horn in Orang National Park in AssamDespite the poaching attempt in India, can you believe that the Indian Rhino numbers could actually be up?This year there was an Indian Rhino census—guess what the total was?Is it okay to protect animals even at the expense of the surrounding communities?Would community intelligence officers work in South Africa the way they work in India?We discuss the need to clone Dr. Ja...2022-05-1959 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E19 - The Weekly News 05-12-2022 with Shannon Elizabeth & Peter BorchertShow Notes:S2 E19 – The Weekly News 05-12-2022 with Shannon Elizabeth, Peter Borchert & a special guest interview with Dr. Louise de Waal/Blood LionsSimon is in the USA, so Shannon and Peter are in charge. Peter is updating Rhino Review, while Shannon helped to take care of a 6-day-old baby rhino over the weekend. Peter talks about the evolution of rhinos across 55 million years. Do you know what the largest land mammal ever to have lived was?A story in Science Magazine notes that a resea...2022-05-1256 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E18 - The Weekly News 04-20-2021 with Simon Borchert, Shannon Elizabeth & Peter BorchertTrophy hunter kills Botswana’s largest elephant, and claims he is a hero. With just $50k paid for the hunt, the arguments in defense of this senseless past time of killing for fun are getting thinner and thinner. Simon calls out trophy hunters to engage in discussion in one final bid to understand the psychology in taking pleasure in killing and suffering.Canada’s seal clubbing season opens. With just 3% of kills being attributed to traditional use by the indigenous Innuits, we debate the claimed value of the fur industry. Canada is not a shining example of envi...2022-04-2058 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E17 - The Weekly News 04-06-2021 with Shannon Elizabeth, Simon Borchert & Peter BorchertAs we focus on the ongoing poaching stats, it is important to quantify the good work being done. Peter shares some successes in prosecutions across Africa to India for poaching related crimes. We must support the people on the front lines more than ever.Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary takes in another orphan. If you can support them, please do so. They do extraordinary work.Indonesia’s challenges with palm oil production continues as suspicion grows as the government is accused of collusion and price fixing. Palm oil usage in bio-diesel is also cause for co...2022-04-061h 06
The Rhona Morrell PodcastEp #47 Art of Conservation with Simon BorchertFirstly THANK YOU to Simon for his professionalism and utter patience with my epic technical issues!!! In this podcast, we talked about all things conservation its current and future challenges, and how Simon and the team at The Elizabeth Shannon Foundation have got solutions and an action plan. Simon is CEO of the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation and is a socially and environmentally-minded brand and business strategist with an insatiable desire for outdoor adventure and a deep passion for protecting the world’s wildlife and wild places through the upliftment of its indigenous people.
With more than 20 years of...2022-04-0656 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E16 - The Weekly News 03-30-2021 with Simon Borchert, Shannon Elizabeth & Peter BorchertA new scholarship that supports young African women entering the conservation economy, opens its applications for the 2023 academic year this Friday, 1 April. Peter’s editorial focuses on how do we address the issues of education, but also the major shortcomings in the funding of global conservation. Could subsidy reform at a government level play a role? 7 members of the African Parks Network team murdered by Islamic extremists in Benin sends chilling warning to conservation communities all over the continent. Is this a taste of things to come?Hippo ivory trade is on the rise with muc...2022-03-3057 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E15 - The Weekly News 03-23-2021 with Simon Borchert, Shannon Elizabeth & Peter BorchertMassive sink holes are appearing on the seabed of the Beaufort Sea in the Arctic with melting permafrost to blame. Is this a sign of accelerated climate change? New research from 2 American universities suggests that the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937, which was instituted to tax hunters for unregulated hunting, is the reason why conservation claims by trophy hunters are so exaggerated. More evidence suggests that South Africa’s recent trophy hunting quotas offers little economic value. But again, are this divisive conversations not distracting us from the urgent work we actually need to be...2022-03-251h 04
The Art Of ConservationS2 E14 - The Weekly News 03-10-2021 with Simon Borchert & Peter BorchertSouth Africa’s minister of the Department of Fisheries, Forest and the Environment recently announced South Africa’s commitment to trophy hunting by publicising the trophy hunting quota for the year ahead. Included in the heady mix of commercialised blood lust are 150 elephant, 10 leopard and shockingly, 10 critically endangered black rhino. Given the continued poaching crisis, the incompleteness of the commitment to end captive lion breeding and intense rhino breeding, the ministry seems to be backtracking, and we are suitably confused at the mixed messaging, the inconsistency in application of science, ethic and the inaccurate economic numbers used in th...2022-03-101h 03
The Art Of ConservationS2 E13 - In Conversation with Dr Sylvia EarleNo discussion about the state of our planet, most notably our oceans, is complete without the inclusion of Her Deepness, Dr Sylvia Earle. For more than half a century Sylvia has been one of the loudest and most articulate voices of reason and science in the pursuit to not only protect and correct the state of the ocean, but also in inspiring others to do the same.In this episode, Simon and Sylvia discuss her latest book, a collaboration with the National Geographic Society entitled “Ocean, A Global Odyssey”. The conversation also explores the great “Anthropause”, the state of...2022-03-031h 08
The Art Of ConservationS2 E12 - The Weekly News 01-19-2021 with Simon Borchert & Shannon ElizabethRob Barber from Golden Africa Safaris joins us in studio as we discuss our reaction to a poorly penned article that argues for trophy hunting as a suggested force for conservation. Debate rages as we explore this contentious issue. Is the value of trophy hunting overstated? Are local communities truly engaged with? What drive trophy hunting as conservation? Simon points out that arguing that anti hunters are the emotional ones, misses the point – are trophy hunters the overly emotional ones after all…? We think so and explain why… Rob explains his deep love and affection for the...2022-01-201h 01
The Art Of ConservationS2 E11 - The Weekly News 01-12-2021 with Simon Borchert & Shannon ElizabethThe Anthropocene. What are the real implications and how quickly is it all happening? Does Leonardo di Caprio’s latest film, Don’t Look Up hit the mark?Is poverty being reversed?Are our political and economic systems fit for purpose to reverse the damage big business has caused on the planet? If there were no conservation or environmental charities in the world, where would be? Some big questions unpacked on this week’s show…2022-01-1459 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E10 - The Weekly News 01-05-2021 with Simon Borchert & Peter Borchert2022 is off to a rocky start. Peter Borchert and Simon Borchert talk about the devastating news of the passing of Dr Richard Leakey, an icon of global conservation. But what lessons did Richard, Betty White and others leave for us in how we make sure that we continue their work and legacies?Simon provides feedback on the Christmas campaign to raise funds for Daisy, a 12 hour old rhino calf that was rescued by Care For Wild Sanctuary. Her road to recovery is a tough one, but we can support her and the other 5 rhino calves rescued during...2022-01-0553 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E9 - The Weekly News 12-29-2021 with Simon Borchert & Peter Borchert - Our Heroes of 2021Simon & Peter talk about their conservation heroes of 2021.The list could be endless, but we talk about the recent passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, E.O. Wilson and Thomas Lovejoy and celebrate Dr Esmond Martin, Wangari Maathai, Merlyn Nkomo, Dr John Hanks, Peter Fearnhead, Jane Goodall and Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka as some of this year’s conservation heroes.We wish all our listeners a prosperous, successful and exciting 2022. The fight to save our wild places has never been tougher, but it is made easier by all the amazing folk who do so much for so little. We...2021-12-3053 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E8 - The Weekly News 12-08-2021 with Simon Borchert & Peter BorchertPeter and Simon talk about the spike in poaching in South Africa and how the problem is spreading across the country. Isn’t it time we put divisive arguments of trade or no trade aside for us to focus on the triage, the immediate urgency to collaborate and halt the poaching before there is nothing left to trade?And how will long term strategies include the empowerment of indigenous people? Authentic socio-economic transformation must be central to Africa’s future.5 orphans in 3 weeks. The consequences of this spike in poaching is resulting in huge pressure on a...2021-12-221h 04
The Art Of ConservationS2 E7 - The Weekly News 12-08-2021 with Simon Borchert & Shannon ElizabethPeter Borchert is in studio!Shell loses deal in Cambo but continues with the controversial seismic surveys in South Africa. Meanwhile, a French company Visio Terra finds evidence of over 18,000 oil slicks off Africa’s west coast and the Niger Delta continues to suffer an oil spill that has been active since 5 November. When will corporations be held accountable for the continued negligence?Unresolved land claims continue in Kruger National Park.Elle Magazine bans any advertising or content that includes animal furs. Seems late, but none the less we welcome the move....2021-12-0843 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E6 - The Weekly News 12-01-2021 with Simon Borchert & Shannon ElizabethPeter Borchert is back!African Parks Network and 7Beyond Phinda relocate 30 rhinos from South Africa to Rwanda.Shell respond to growing public pressure about the seismic surveys being conducted on South Africa’s east coast. And their response is predictably void of any ethical accountability but will the application for a court interdict be successful? We hope so. Please sign the petition to bring this reckless activity to an abrupt end. See the schedule below to participate in country wide protests in South Africa scheduled for 5 December and join #oceansnotoil in stopping this reckless practice....2021-12-011h 09
The Art Of ConservationS2 E5 - The Weekly News 11-24-2021 with Simon Borchert & Shannon ElizabethShannon and Simon return from the Okavango Delta and discuss the important of responsible tourism. Thank you to Golden Africa Safaris for hosting us.Invest Bank and United For Wildlife release financial report on the illegal wildlife trade in South Africa.Expeadia Group will no longer support properties that promote animal interactions on their platforms and France bans wild animals in circuses, the mink trade and dolphin shows. Big wins.Conservation International has released a report on the important zones around the world that we must protect if we are to stand a...2021-11-2455 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E4 - The Wandering Conservationist, Part 1 –Simon Borchert in conversation with Dr Peter LindseyLionsThey are perhaps the greatest character in the brochure for African travel.And in many of the larger parks across the African continent they are not too difficult to see either - could even be described s prolific. In fact many would consider you unlucky to visit Africa and not see at least one on safari. But this perhaps sends a slightly inaccurate message to the world that lion numbers healthy and stable. Sadly, this couldn’t be further from the truth.As much as they are abundant in places like Kruger Na...2021-11-0747 min
The Art Of ConservationS2 E3 - The Weekly News 11-03-2021 with Simon Borchert & Shannon ElizabethCOP26 in Glasgow yields few reasons for optimism as leaders seemingly fall short of authentic accountability yet again.The Shannon Elizabeth Foundation launches new education fund. Merlyn Nkomo joins us in studio to talk about the challenges young Africans face in developing a career in the biodiversity economy and her role in spearheading the One Woman’s Legacy Scholarship Fund.2021-11-031h 31
The Art Of ConservationS2 E2 - The Weekly News 10-27-2021 with Simon Borchert & Shannon ElizabethWill COP 26 bring the urgency we desperately need? The UK has a plan, but how will we hold leaders accountable?Rhino Oz doing well after the world’s first CT scan on a rhino. Care For Wild leading the charge yet again in rhino conservation - please support them if you can!A new study suggests that due to poaching, female elephants are evolving to no longer grow tusks. How is this possible?Najin, the world’s oldest northern white rhino, is retired from the desperate breeding program to save the species. Stunning imag...2021-10-271h 03
The Art Of ConservationNEW SEASON! Season 2 Episode 1 - The Weekly News 10-20-2021WE ARE BACK! And season 2 is looking good - filled with more news, more guests, more interviews, more debate, more insight and more ways to get involved!Today, Shannon and Simon reflect on a visit to Yellowstone and America’s Pacific north West.Should billionaires be going to space when we need to save this planet first?Should donors and NGOs be reevaluating their relationships? We think so…The UK FINALLY lifts its travel ban on South Africa.More poaching arrests in South Africa’s Kruger National Park.Jagu...2021-10-2158 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 45 - The Weekly News 07-21-2021Backlash from last week’s show reminds us that unity in conservation is a win and should be treated as such. With one week to go until the deadline to submit comments to South Africa’s Minister of Forrest, Fisheries and the Environment, we encourage all to support the bill.138kg of rhino horn seized in Vietnam - and with it 3 tonnes of lion bones. Is this an indication of things to come as lion breeders begin to offload stock en mass ahead of the ban of the captive lion breeding industry in South Africa?Is it...2021-07-2158 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 4 - The Weekly News 07-07-2021 - Dr Andrew MuirDr Andrew Muir, CEO of Wilderness Foundation, shares his experience of his time on the high level panel appointed by Minister Barbara Creecy to evaluate new legislation on sustainable use of wildlife in South Africa. We hear the urgent call for unity in global conservation circles to support the policy to ban the captive lion breeding industry. To support this bill, please read the policy document here and submit your support to the minister by July 28, 2021. For more information, please email info@artofconservation.com.Peter’s editorial explores the growing controversy behind the proposed relocation of 13 elephant fr...2021-07-141h 04
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 43 - The Weekly News 07-07-2021 - Listener Q&A!This week we answer your burning questions.With questions from around the world, we answer questions like, what are the best conservation books to read and learn more? Should we sell rhino horn stockpiles to wealthy philanthropists, or should we destroy them? Do ivory and rhino burns or crushes work? Should NGOs support or challenge the captive lion breeding bill in South Africa? How do environmental bills get passed into law in the USA and should presidents execute more executive orders? And lastly, how do listeners access all the show notes and archives for the podcast?2021-07-071h 09
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 42 - The Weekly News 06-30-2021 - Special Report!South Africa is facing a critical period in conservation legislation reform. 2 months after Barbara Creecy, the minister of the Department of Forest Fisheries and the Environment, released the findings of a high level panel to investigate the contentious intensive captive lion breeding industry and rhino breeding industry, the policy paper has now been released for public comment before being law. It is a convoluted process but it has already sent ripples through the conservation community. But perhaps the greatest threat to this landmark legislation not going through, are the conservation NGOs themselves. The legislation offers a major step forward...2021-06-301h 17
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 41 - The Weekly News 06-23-2021 - Poaching Kingpin Assassinated!Alleged rhino poaching kingpin Petrus “Mr Big” Mabuza has been assassinated. But what does this mean in the broader rhino poaching war?Early rhino fossils found, furthering the belief that these enormous rhino ancestors were the largest mammals to ever walk the earth.Simon calls for civility in the persistent media attacks against conservation scientists and commentators, even though he himself doesn’t agree with them. We must move beyond the hate and threats of violence if we are to find a positive way forward.Today is the inaugural World Female Ranger Day - we c...2021-06-231h 11
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 40 - The Weekly News 06-16-2021Are we seeing a wave of optimism in conservation and sustainability circles? A theme winds through this episode as we unpack reasons to be hopeful that things are changing for the better around the world.Peter’s editorial talks about South Africa’s Youth Day being the inspiration for World Day of the African Child - a day that shines. spotlight on th education challenges that still face the continent and how conservation can play a role in this much needed correction.How big are countries relatively speaking? Here’s a way to compare them.W...2021-06-161h 01
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 39 - The Weekly News 06-10-2021Inspired by stories like Huberta, the migrating hippo and the elephants trekking across China, Peter’s editorial focuses on the great and mysterious migrations of animals. Simon believes media outlets should be more responsible though and explains how sensationalist media can put wildlife and people at risk.Donkey collagen is a booming industry - and so are the animal welfare issues that come with it.Should social media companies like Facebook do more to prevent the growing number of illegal wildlife trade transactions on social media platforms? Proposed legislation should be supported. Simon suggests a di...2021-06-1059 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 38 - The Weekly News 06-03-2021ReconAfrica under investigation by the SEC for misleading investors - could this be the beginning of the end of their controversial exploration in Southern Africa?Electric cars are great, but what do we do with the used and unrecyclable batteries?The container ship burning off the Sri Lankan coast has dumped tons of plastic into the ocean, polluting the Sri Lankan coastline.India reintroduces cheetah into the wild with the help of the Endangered Wildlife Trust from South Africa.South Africa and France join forces to protect biodiversity.Notorious...2021-06-041h 08
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 37 - The Weekly News 05-19-2021Peter’s editorial focuses on World Endangered Species Day. To commemorate the occasion, the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation will be raising funds for Munu, the blind black rhino.The results of The New Big 5 are in! Has your favourite animal made the list?Big cats make the news - a tiger escapes in Texas and lions in a Hyderabad Zoo in India test positive for COVID-19.A mixed bag of rhino news - poaching is up in Botswana, more arrests and convictions in South Africa, Dr William Fowlds leads a team of international experts to...2021-05-191h 07
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 36 - The Weekly News 05-12-2021Captive lion breeders in South Africa begin to prepare a class action suit against the Department of Forest, Fisheries and the Environment. The Texas bankruptcy court denies the application by NRA’s Wayne le Pierre to dissolve the controversial organisation in the same week that media around the world condemns his shocking trophy hunt of an African elephant.Idaho’s governor, Brad Little passes a shocking bill that promotes the unethical slaughter of 90% of the state’s wild wolves. Pressure mounts for ReconAfrica as further questions are asked of their less than acceptable conduct...2021-05-121h 13
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 35 - The Weekly News 05-05-2021 - Special Report!Minister Barbara Creecy from South Africa’s Department of Forest, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) surprised many conservationists with a bold move to ban the captive breeding of lion and rhino. Creecy delivered the long awaited report during a press conference this past Sunday.Having convened a High Level Panel in 2019, the ministry has examined all available data and accepted the panel’s recommendation to dissolve the captive lion breeding - a deplorable industry fuelling the lion bone and canned hunting industries. The Minister also accepted the recommendation to no longer pursue the international trade in rhino and to...2021-05-051h 16
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 34 - The Weekly News 04-28-2021 - Earth Day Round Up!Earth Day Round Up! Greta Thunberg goes toe-to-toe with Rep Ralph Norman in a subcommittee hearing in Congress. Shannon thanks everyone for donating on Clubhouse, and we discuss ways that everyone can do their bit.Furch Guitars and Taylor Guitars are moving toward a more sustainable future and are becoming more conscious about the use of endangered and exotic woods in the manufacturing of their guitars - providing yet another way artists and consumers can use the power of their dollar to improve the planet. A new species of venomous snake discovered in Asia. ...2021-04-2454 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 33 - The Weekly News 04-21-2021We could be close to getting ReconAfrica to commit to a public panel about their fracking in Namibia and Botswana which is putting the entire Kavango Basin and surrounding communities at a huge risk.In the spirit of corporate colonisation, Total pushes forward with their oil pipeline that will connect the oil fields in Uganda’s Lake Albert Basin with the Tanzanian coast some 1400km or 900 miles to the east. Can we stop it?Zimbabwe has decided to sell some 500 elephant trophy hunts at $70,000 per hunt. The intention is to use these funds to fund co...2021-04-2149 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 32 - An Interview With The Creators Of The Last Horns Of AfricaPetronel Nieuwoudt and Don English and the other courageous soles presented in this documentary are heroes. Not the kind of fictitious superheroes who wear capes, they are instead the real heroes. The kind that gets scared, that cry, that worry, that bleed… Yet they show up anyway. Every day and every night. And against incalculable odds.Emerging filmmaking heroes Morgan Pelt, Garth de Brun Austin and Sean Viljoen tell Petronel and Don’s story in this remarkable documentary. A four year odyssey that has resulted in one of the most important conservation documentaries of recent times. The Last...2021-04-161h 14
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 31 - The Weekly News 04-14-2021Simon is becoming a snake wrangler, Shannon has spider bite and Peter decides to stop eating fish. It is also a big week for nature documentaries!My Octopus Teacher wins a BAFTA. We talk about how Seaspiracy exposes the fishing industries.The Last Horns of Africa hits home. Hard. We discuss the documentary that follows two of our friends, Petronel Nieuwoudt from Care For Wild Rhino Sanctuary and Don English, the most important man in South Africa’s war against rhino poaching. Saving The Wild’s Jamie Joseph reacts and calls for public suppo...2021-04-141h 10
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 30 - The Weekly News 03-24-2021According to Peter’s editorial this week in RhinoReview.org, animals are provably worth more alive than dead - throwing a spanner in the works of consumptive use economic arguments. World Bank sees the potential of a conservation economy as it launches its first wildlife bond designed to protect the endangered black rhino in South Africa.Great news in Kenya as Ol Pejeta announces birth of white rhino calf.Nepal begins first census since 2015 of their one-horned rhino population.China opens first polar bear hotel. Sign the petition to bring this obscene animal cr...2021-03-241h 01
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 29 - The Weekly News 03-10-2021 - International Women’s Day!Peter’s editorial questions the messaging of International Women’s Day when so many women in poverty stricken countries are still so oppressed. We need to do more and conservation can be a major player in correcting gender based violence and gender inequality. Shannon talks about her new Scholarship fund for young African women to enter the conservation sciences. Mandy, a white rhino that survived a poachers bullet several times recovers to have her first calf in time for International Women’s Day!Should eco-tourism operators adhere to an accreditation system to evaluate their sustainability efforts...2021-03-111h 10
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 28 - The Weekly News 03-03-2021 - WORLD WILDLIFE DAY!It’s World Wildlife Day and we’ve dedicated our show to a day that reminds us just wonderful the wild world is!Peter’s editorial this week showcases some of the more interesting species on the African continent. From Madagascar’s Aye-Aye to the sex life of a clown fish, we’ve got some insights that will capture your imagination.TRAFFIC and WWF chooses World Wildlife Day to release a report that puts pressure on France and the central role they play in the illegal wildlife trade.An iceberg the size of Los Angela...2021-03-031h 14
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 27 - The Weekly News 02-24-2021The economics of conservation is a hot topic and we weigh in. We need to protect more habitat and employ more people to protect it - but how are we going to pay for it all?We discuss the possibilities of a reengineered conservation economy as UNEP releases the “Making Peace With Nature” report. The report joins a chorus of thinkers who recognise the need for convergence of good business with authentic philanthropy.Should we be demanding that NGO’s provide a R.O.D. - a Return On Donation to donors? We think so… Audited p...2021-02-251h 00
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 26 - The Weekly News 02-17-2021Peter’s editorial reflects on World Pangolin Day. A day that promotes the world’s most trafficked mammal. And the stats are simply scary… We discuss some amazing people that deserve your support in protecting these curious creatures.Canadian mining giant ReconAfrica continues its assault on the Okavango Delta and in our opinion they’re doing so with near zero regard for the wildlife or the people who call this World Heritage Site home. We unpack what we know so far. And there is not much to be optimistic about. If you want to be inspired to protect t...2021-02-1755 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 25 - The Weekly News 02-10-2021What is IUCN and CITES? We explain the structure and role of these conservation bodies and debate how they could be improved in a modern conservation and political landscape.The decline of nature is directly linked to our quality of life - yet why don’t we act with more urgency to repair and protect the planet? We think about the the link between positive media and positive behaviour and how COVID has perhaps resensitised us.And in fantastic news for South Africa, the environmental court in Kruger National Park’s Skukuza reopens for business afte...2021-02-101h 02
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 24 - The Weekly News 02-03-2021 - Special Report - Part Two!A week after South Africa’s Department of Forest and Fisheries released the SANParks 2020 annual report, the department issued a press release claiming that poaching was down in 2020. Good news, no doubt. But is it just a respite, rather than a sustainable trend? We unpack the industry’s reaction.Is rhino dehorning a sustainable solution to the poaching crisis. It can be effective but it isn’t viable long term. We explain why in our A-Z of rhino dehorning.Rounding up this week’s show: Defying the CITES convention, Namibia moves to sell 170 wild elep...2021-02-031h 04
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 23 - The Weekly News 01-27-2021 - Special Report - Part One!This week, South Africa’s Department of Forest and Fisheries published the SANParks 2020 Annual Report.In what can only be described as a revelation, it is now evident that the number of rhino in South Africa’s Kruger National Park is radically less than previously thought. How will this information impact conservation efforts? Should we not be treating this crisis with greater urgency?We dedicate today’s show to this important news.Articles referenced:Rhino Review’s How Many Are There in Kruger? Please sign up to Rhino Review to receive weekly u...2021-01-271h 08
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 22 - The Weekly News 01-21-2021Will a new president bring in a renewed urgency for the climate crisis and environmental issues? We hope Biden lives up to his promises.Peter’s editorial is a response to the The Guardian’s article entitled, “Celebrity power undermining global conservation efforts, scientists warn”. We in turn warn that further divisive language and attacks on opinions that differ from our own will further polarise conservation efforts. We despise trophy hunting but recognise the right for people to disagree with us. Most of all, we recognise the urgent need to promote civil and intellectual exchange as we debate t...2021-01-211h 01
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 21 - The Weekly News 01-15-2021We’re back! Welcome to 2021 - may it be a fantastic year for us all, especially those on the front lines in protecting the planet and all who call it home.A big first episode of 2021:Virunga suffers again as 6 more rangers murdered.Safari Nation, authored by Jacob Dlamini, has brought a focus on the tribal history of South Africa’s Kruger National Park and we believe we need to talk more about the experiences of First Nation people the world over when it comes to the historical creation of conservation areas.Re...2021-01-151h 04
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 20 - The Weekly News 12-16-2020Happy Holidays!we are taking a break for the next couple of weeks, but we will be back in January!So this being our last show of 2020, we decided to dedicate it to the good stories of a bad year. Inspired by Peter’s editorial on Rhino Review, we examine some of the exciting stories that caught our attention this year. Some highlights:Albatrosses help us spy on illegal fishing.Big Cat Public Safety Act passes Congress.US court of appeals halts drilling for oil and gas in the Ar...2020-12-1655 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 19 - The Weekly News 12-10-2020Victory! Congress passes H.R. 1380 - The Big Cat Public Safety Act - now on to the Senate…China, in another surprise move, elevates the protection status of pangolin to that enjoyed by the giant panda. China is definitely responding to public pressure and increasing protection for trafficked animals. The recent increase in arrests and successful prosecutions backs this up.Yes, South Africa continues to ignore the mounting pressure to bring the abhorrent captive lion breeding industry to book. Humane Society International recently joined Blood Lions, SATSA (South African Tourism Services Association), Wildlife Act and ot...2020-12-1047 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 18 - The Weekly News 12-03-2020In a surprise move, Congress brought forward the vote for the Big Cat Safety Act (H.R. 1380), leaving little time to drive home the importance of the act on global conservation efforts. So, we chose to dedicate much of today’s episode on this critical bill that goes to the floor today.In short, the bill revises requirements governing the trade of big cats (i.e., species of lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, jaguar, or cougar or any hybrid of such species). Specifically, it revises restrictions on the possession and exhibition of big cats, including to restrict direct co...2020-12-031h 15
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 17 - An Interview With Andrea CrostaThe vaquita is the world’s smallest and most endangered porpoise. With an estimated wild population of less than 10, it is arguably one of the most endangered animals on the planet.In recent years, an estimated $100m has been spent by governments, NGO’s and conservation bodies to protect the species. Yet numbers have plummeted from several hundred ten years ago to the lows of today.What is driving their imminent extinction? They are little more than collateral damage in the persistent totoaba swim bladder trade, a delicacy in the east. Mexican cartels manag...2020-12-0159 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 16 - The Weekly News 11-26-2020Our interview with Kevin Richardson - The Lion Whisperer - has caused a bit of a stir. We share some feedback and offer our responses to the questions asked by listeners.Will the Covid-19 vaccine cause even more strife for wildlife? A recent report suggests that of the 202 potential candidates for the vaccine, 5 of them are using formulations that use squalene or shark liver oil. Manufacturers prefer the yield from deep sea species such as the great hammerhead shark, great white shark, whale sharks and others that are also threatened or indeed endangered. Surely in this day...2020-11-2645 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 15 - An Interview With Kevin RichardsonThe Lion Whisperer.A much loved - and perhaps misunderstood - fixture on the African social media landscape. With millions following his every move, Kevin Richardson has never been far from conservation or animal welfare controversy. But is it all deserved? Does he play a role in conservation, and if so, how? Is he running a petting zoo? Why are you doing this? Where do your animals come from? Are you their last resort? Are you breeding? All legitimate questions that should be asked, not just of Kevin, but of all in the sanctuary space. I...2020-11-241h 22
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 14 - The Weekly News 11-19-2020A field ranger has gone missing in Kruger National Park in South Africa. We pray for his safe return. Fertiliser is choking America’s Great Lakes system, risking the health of this critical freshwater system that is estimated to be in excess of 20% of the world’s fest water. This gives us more impetus to do more to protect our water systems and change to better agriculture methods.Jeff Bezos donates almost $800million to 16 leading climate crisis organisations, yet some believe it is not enough. As a percentage of total wealth, how big are billionaire donat...2020-11-1952 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 13 - The Weekly News 11-12-2020The figurative election fever and the literal COVID-19 fever are not letting up, we discuss how tough it is to stay focused on conservation goals.Some good news – Interpol’s Operation Thunder 2020 has resulted in some of the largest seizures in illegal wildlife trade history. Spanning multiple continents and over 100 countries, this operation seized tens of thousands of animals destined for markets mostly in the east. But what do we do with them all? What happens to rescued animals?The National Audubon Society is endorsing wind power after some pretty cool innovation. But this simple inno...2020-11-1249 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 12 - The Weekly News 11-05-2020Election fever grips the studio. We aren’t concerned with the colour of your tie when it comes to issues of protecting the planet. Putting personal opinions aside, we discuss the recent article in National Geographic that compares the presidential candidates as it relates to issues of climate change, conservation and environmental policy. Then, with no chance to prepare, we put each other on the spot and compare notes as to what we would want any US president elect to do on behalf of the planet in 2020.National Geographic has broken the story of how Namibia and Bo...2020-11-0547 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 11 - The Weekly News 10-30-2020WE. ARE. BACK!!!After a month long trip through South Africa on a mission for the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation we are back in studio. Africa is a tough place and sadly our recording equipment didn't survive the journey! Thank you to everyone for their patience and we look forward to resuming our regular programming.On the show this week…A round up of World Rhino Month and the tour from Shannon. We discuss the precarious position our rangers find themselves in and what we can do to help.The economist asks th...2020-10-301h 12
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 10 - An Interview With Brett BarlowTo save a species, we must save every animal we possibly can. When it comes to the endangered black rhino, this could not be more true. Which is why the story of Munu the rhino is just so important.In our build up to World Rhino Day on the 22nd September, we visited Brett Barlow in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province to hear the story first hand of how he saved Munu from certain death. Why is this so remarkable? Because Munu, a fully grown 17 year old black rhino bull, is blind as a bat...2020-09-1847 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 09 - The Weekly News 09-10-2020We are joined by our first Guest Host - Katie Cleary, award winning documentary producer, philanthropist, activist, vegan advocate and founder of World Animal News and Peace For Animals. Katie shares news that Dirty Harry himself is supporting her upcoming documentary. Peter discusses his recent editorial for Rhino Review which focuses on a recent TRAFFIC report that investigates the 2019 illegal wildlife trafficking stats for 2019. The numbers are truly frightening. But there is some cause for celebration with the world’s largest rhino horn bust in Vietnam.Katie discusses the recent advances by the United States to be...2020-09-101h 04
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 08 - The Weekly News 09-04-2020Biologist Erika Cuéllar Soto recruits indigenous people to be “parabiologists,” using their local knowledge and history to defend the ecosystem to better protect the Gran Chaco forest in South America.Empowering local women in conservation gathers momentum in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, giving us reason to be optimistic that we can see even more transformation in conservation.With 11 elephant found dead in Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, we speculate whether there may be a link to the as yet to be explained deaths of almost 400 elephant in Botswana in the last few months...2020-09-041h 00
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 07 - The Weekly News 08-28-2020Simon has a rant. With a growing media focus on the questionable conservation management in southern Africa, should we not be asking more of our leaders? Articles referenced include Laurel Neme’s investigation into the closure of the environmental court in Skukuza, South Africa that was recently published in National Geographic.Tony Carnie, from Daily Maverick penned a 2 part feature about the suspension of the entire board of Ezemvelo, the conservation authority in South Africa’s Kwa-Zulu Natal province and Don Pinnock questions the region’s leadership.According to Earth Overshoot Day, we w...2020-08-2850 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 06 - The Weekly News 08-20-2020We celebrate the news of a record number of elephant births in Kenya - including two rare sets of twins!Botswana still unsure of the cause of the mysterious elephant deaths, but the investigations are not without hope as University of Pretoria in South Africa increase their efforts.The Trump administration implements its plan to drill for oil in Alaska, disregarding the regions indigenous people and the sanctity of the wildlife reserve. Mauritius continues with their clean up efforts after the oil spill from the Japanese bulk carrier, the MV Wakashio. Could this not be...2020-08-2042 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 05 - The Weekly News 08-14-2020We celebrate World Elephant Day with the much anticipated release of National Geographic’s “Akashinga – The Brave Ones”, a documentary by James Cameron about the incredible work of the IAPF – the International Anti-Poaching Foundation.Botswana’s elephant mystery continues…Singapore crush over 8 tonnes of ivory.Stem cell research could bring back the Malaysian Sumatran rhino. Peter talks about his editorial in www.rhinoreview.org.The New Big Five – the global call to re-create The Big Five around the animals we want to save, not shoot.As Cameroon passes legislation to protect the E...2020-08-161h 01
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 04 - An Interview With Damien ManderThis week saw the anticipated release of the National Geographic documentary, “Akashinga - The Brave Ones”. The 13 minute documentary is produced by James Cameron and co-produced and directed by Maria Wilhelm. It is masterful and showcases what must be one of the greatest conservation stories of our time. It dispels the traditional faceless and emotionless facade of militarized conservation and instead offers an insight into the individuals who have become the benchmark for community based anti-poaching programs the world over. Their vulnerability and defiance of social convention in becoming rangers provides us with a rare view not just into cons...2020-08-1431 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 03 - The Weekly News 08-07-2020The casualty count in India's floods continues to rise with an orphaned rhino struggling to survive. We chat to world renowned rhino rescue and rehabilitation expert, Care For Wild founder Petronel Nieuwoudt about the challenges of quickly and effectively rescuing and ultimately rewilding displaced rhinos.The Galapagos Islands see 260 Chinese fishing vessels descend on their protected waters, sparking outrage from around the world. CITES under pressure as more African Countries demand an investigation into Zimbabwe's 2019 live elephant sale to China.California bill to ban the possession of wildlife "trophies" passes the Assembly Committee a...2020-08-101h 01
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 02 - The Weekly News 07-31-2020We chat to Peter Lindsay, director of WCN’s Lion Recovery Fund about his recent paper highlighting the potential impact of Covid-19 on African conservation efforts.Rangers around the world are in desperate need of our assistance. To commemorate World Ranger Day, we chat to International Ranger Federation president, Chris Galliers.The late Dr Ian Player embodies the ranger spirit, Peter Borchert pays tribute. Reference articles from Wilderness Foundation, Rhino Review and Maya AngelouVietnam bans the wildlife trade, or have they…?The animal death toll of the recent fires in Aust...2020-08-0358 min
The Art Of ConservationEpisode 01 - The Weekly News 07-24-2020South Africa's Department of Environmental Affairs recently made headlines as public concern grows over seemingly biased appointments to a high-level panel. The panel convened by Minister Barbara Creecy has been set up to consider sustainable use issues. In defiance, many organizations and conservation leaders refused the late request to join the panel. We talk to Cormac Cullinan, an environmental lawyer and member of the IUCN Environmental Law Commission, about why he refused the invitation to join.Kaziranga National Park in India is experiencing extreme flooding. With water levels rising, and safe areas few and far between, we...2020-07-271h 22