Cargolux Airlines International has banned the transport of lion bones to tackle poaching and breeding for trophy hunts.
The cargo airline is among the first major carrier to ban these shipments, and though Cargolux has not yet been approached to handle such commodities, it says it is crucial to take the stance in order to raise awareness within the industry and promote ethical operations.
Richard Forson, president and CEO of Cargolux says: “Cargolux is strongly committed to conservation and animal welfare, a cause that the company increasingly engages in wherever possible. Once we became aware of the emergence of this trade, the decision was immediately taken to ban the transport of such cargo throughout our network. It is highly important that all players in the transport industry recognise their responsibility towards wildlife trafficking and take all applicable measures to eliminate this trade.”
Michele Pickover, director of EMS Foundation says: “This positive decision, will go some way in disrupting this abhorrent and cruel trade. It also sets a great example to all the other cargo airlines to take more ethical decisions when it comes to the international wildlife trade. Many airlines may be unaware of the trade itself or its implications for both African Lions and Asian Tigers.”
