The popular wildlife charity World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is accused of supporting the polar bear fur trade while using polar bear images in fundraising campaigns. Allegations surfaced after a two-year Guardian investigation found WWF enabling the international polar bear fur trade under a policy of “sustainable utilization.”
The “sustainable utilization” policy allows limited animal use for economic gain to improve overall species status. The WWF supports hunting that doesn’t endanger threatened species as part of conservation efforts. This stance has faced criticism and skepticism from many.
During CITES meetings, WWF lobbied for the Canadian polar bear fur trade despite acknowledging potential population declines. It argued that trade posed no significant threat to the species and opposed full protection proposals in 2010 and 2013, citing insufficient criteria met.
The WWF’s stance remains unchanged. Colman O’Criodain, speaking at a 2022 CITES meeting, indicated a lack of focus on numeric criteria for recommending enhanced protection. In 2013, WWF mentioned the possibility of revisiting CITES listing if climate change or trade became more pressing threats, but it deemed that scenario premature. The organization contends that prohibiting international trade could adversely impact Indigenous communities.
Inupiat resident Robert Thompson disputes WWF’s claim, stating they didn’t sell animals for 10,000 years, keeping them around. He supports earning sustainably from wildlife viewing instead of hunting. Former WWF director Jean-Paul Jeanrenaud was surprised by charity’s impact, anticipating public shock.
The WWF, in contrast to 80 NGOs, opposed full protection for animals like elephants and rhinos at CITES. They argued that Appendix I listings wouldn’t stop trophy hunting, citing Inuit resistance. CITES determined Canada’s 2013 trade debate was sustainable post a 2015 review.
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