Protecting biodiversity
South and Southeast Asia represents a biogeographically contiguous region rich in numerous species of flora and fauna. The rich biodiversity of the region is reflected in the fact that the four mega biodiverse countries of the world are located here: India, China, Malaysia and Indonesia. The other nations in the region with considerable biodiversity are Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. However, poor wildlife management and severe anthropogenic pressure in the region have been seriously impacting this spectacular regional biodiversity. Several species found in this region are not found anywhere else in the world, but many of them are seriously endangered and are on the verge of extinction. The factors promoting this loss of biodiversity are: uncontrolled forest fires, poaching, wildlife trafficking and trade, dependence on forest resources for sustainability of poor indigenous communities, illegal encroachments into forests, poor surveillance and management, lack of awareness etc.
For effective management of the regional biodiversity, China, SAARC and ASEAN members need to come together on a common platform to prevent poaching, illegal wildlife trade and trafficking. All these nations have common borders that are used by traffickers. Surveillance is challenging as the region has dense forests and a difficult terrain. Regional coordination is of utmost importance in stopping poaching and trafficking of wildlife.
Saikat Kumar Basu
Lethbridge, AB, Canada
(—Internet)
