WCP Zambia
Research, Monitoring and Evaluation
Climate change and illegal wildlife trade are two of the most pressing global challenges. The United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) identified illicit wildlife trade as one of the most profitable forms of transnational organised crime.
Research, Monitoring and Evaluation
Climate change and illegal wildlife trade (IWT) are among the most critical global challenges, threatening biodiversity, ecosystems, and human livelihoods. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has identified IWT as one of the most lucrative forms of transnational organised crime, with deep connections to corruption, money laundering, and other illicit activities. The illegal trade in wildlife not only drives species towards extinction but also undermines governance, security, and economic stability in affected regions.
According to the WWF Living Planet Report 2020, global wildlife populations have declined by an average of 68% since 1970, with habitat destruction, overexploitation, and illegal wildlife trade being the primary drivers of this alarming trend. Additionally, climate change exacerbates these threats, disrupting ecosystems and reducing the ability of wildlife populations to recover. The consequences of these environmental crises extend far beyond conservation concerns, impacting human well-being by worsening poverty, inequality, and social injustices, particularly in communities that rely on natural resources for survival.
Our Approach
At Wildlife Crime Prevention (WCP), we are committed to addressing these pressing challenges through strategic data collection, research, and collaborative partnerships. By analysing trends in wildlife and environmental crime across Zambia and Southern Africa, we provide crucial insights into the scale of threats to biodiversity and the broader socio-economic impacts of wildlife crime. Our work informs conservation strategies and enhances law enforcement efforts to combat illegal activities effectively.
Through our targeted research and analysis, we identify emerging trends in wildlife crime, enabling stakeholders to respond proactively. Our work supports a wide range of initiatives, including strengthening legal frameworks, improving enforcement mechanisms, and engaging communities in conservation efforts.
Key Focus Areas
To combat illegal wildlife trade and environmental crimes, WCP has developed specific projects addressing major threats, including:
- Rhino Horn Trade – Investigating the networks involved in rhino poaching and trafficking to disrupt criminal supply chains and support conservation efforts.
- Bushmeat Poaching and Trade – Understanding the drivers of illegal bushmeat trade, raising awareness, and promoting sustainable alternatives.
- Big Cat Poaching and Trade – Monitoring and addressing the illegal hunting and trafficking of big cats such as lions and leopards.
- Pangolin Trafficking – Analysing the drivers of Zambia’s illegal pangolin trade and working with enforcement agencies to curb trafficking.
By leveraging data-driven insights and fostering collaborations with government agencies, law enforcement, and conservation organisations, we aim to create long-term solutions that protect wildlife and ecosystems. Our approach ensures that conservation decisions are based on solid evidence and that interventions effectively tackle the root causes of wildlife crime.
Through our work, we strive to safeguard Zambia’s natural heritage while promoting social and economic stability for future generations.