Airport Tool to Help Combat Wildlife Trafficking

The International Air Transport Association has announced the launch of an Airport Wildlife Trafficking Assessment Tool that will help defeat smugglers of endangered species. The assessment tool, developed in partnership with the World Customs Organization and with the support of USAID ROUTES Partnership, will be piloted at Maputo International Airport in Mozambique by December. A global rollout is planned for 2017, according to a statement on IATA's website. The tool helps airports assess their supply-chain security, intelligence and risk management, staff awareness and reporting processes, alongside air cargo and passenger screening policy and procedures. “The illegal trafficking of wildlife products, including many iconic and endangered species, is an issue which the aviation industry takes very seriously. It will take a team effort to combat this deplorable trade. We are working in close partnership with USAID ROUTES, WCO, CITES and other organizations to make the world a much more difficult place for wildlife traffickers,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s director general and CEO.