Researchers in South Africa are pioneering new approaches in the battle against rhino poaching through the exploration of nuclear technology. This innovative method involves the introduction of radioisotopes into rhino horns, a strategy that holds the potential to devalue the horns on the black market and assist in the detection and apprehension of poachers and wildlife traffickers.
Under the leadership of Professor James Larkin, the research initiative has involved the injection of these isotopes into live rhinos, with the aspiration that this technique could be expanded to safeguard other vulnerable species such as elephants and pangolins. The procedure commences with the sedation of the animal, followed by the precise insertion of nuclear material into its horn. The ultimate objective is for radiation detection systems at national borders to identify the isotopes, leading to the interception of poachers and traffickers attempting to smuggle rhino horns across international boundaries.
This innovative approach has been motivated by the urgent need to address the alarming decline of the global rhino population. The International Union for Conservation of Nature reports that the population has dwindled from approximately 500,000 at the beginning of the 20th century to a mere 27,000 today, largely as a result of the insatiable demand for rhino horns on the illicit market. South Africa, in particular, has borne the brunt of this crisis, with over 500 rhinos falling victim to poaching annually and an estimated population of only 16,000 remaining in the country.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on rhino poaching. While there was a noticeable decrease in poaching during the peak of the pandemic, numbers surged once lockdown restrictions were eased. In the words of Prof. Larkin, “We’ve got to do something new and something different to reduce poaching. You know, you’ll see the figures they’ve already started going up. During Covid, they all went down but post Covid we are now starting to see those numbers go up again.”
Despite the potential advantages of this method, the researchers have encountered criticism and ethical queries from industry skeptics. Pelham Jones, chairperson of the Private Rhino Owners Association, is one such critic who questions the efficacy of the proposed method due to the poachers’ ability to bypass conventional border crossings when trafficking rhino horns.
Nonetheless, the researchers assert that the level of radioactivity utilised in the process is minimal and has been rigorously tested to mitigate any adverse impact on the animals. The progression of the project has necessitated interdisciplinary collaboration, with veterinarians and nuclear experts working in tandem to refine the procedure.
The incorporation of nuclear technology in the preservation of endangered wildlife represents a daring and unparalleled step towards shielding these species from the threat of poaching. If successful, this approach could potentially revolutionise global endeavours to protect rhinos and other vulnerable animals from the illegal wildlife trade, ensuring a safer and more secure future for these majestic creatures.