To prevent major viral outbreaks such as the COVID-19 outbreak, and the associated impacts on human health, well-being, economies, and security on a global scale, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) recommends stopping all commercial trade in wildlife for human consumption (particularly of birds and mammals) and closing all such markets. Meanwhile, ensuring consideration of the needs of Indigenous Peoples and local communities that are dependent on wildlife consumption for their food security.
John Calvelli, Executive Vice President for Public Affairs for the WCS wants us all to step up and help NOW. John joins me for a feature interview to explain…it’s in OUR power.
The commercial trade in live wildlife for human consumption is leaving us exposed to the threat of deadly, zoonotic pandemics through viral spillover from wildlife to humans along the trade chain.
Photo Credit: WCS Viet Nam
“Banning the trade in live wildlife for human consumption is the first step to bring our planet back on the road to good health. The proposed legislation is the prescription to do just that.”
