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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 4th March 2024
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EU law to crackdown on wildlife trafficking
The new Directive replaces legislation in place since 2008.
The new Directive will make it more risky for criminals.

A revised version of the Environmental Crime Directive (ECD) is set to make wildlife trafficking a higher-risk activity for criminals.

The law, which is expected to be endorsed by the European Council, will strengthen the tools available to European Union (EU) member states for addressing the trafficking of live wild animals and animal parts.

The new Directive will replace legislation in place since 2008, and expands the list of acts that member states are obliged to consider crimes in their national legislation, as well as increasing the sanctions and penalties that can be used.

It will also put in place measures which could improve the effectiveness of national efforts to confront environmental crime. This may include training for authorities, and enhanced cross-border cooperation.

Animal welfare charity Born Free has welcomed the news, stating that the EU is considered a major destination and transit hub for trafficked wildlife. Environmental crimes have also seen an annual rate growth of five per cent to seven per cent globally.

It says that hundreds of thousands of live animals are illegally imported to fuel the exotic pet market, and animal parts for purposes such as traditional medicine and fashion.

The charity believes that the adoption of this directive by 27 member states is a milestone for wildlife, sending a message to criminals that environmental crimes will be treated seriously by the EU going forward. It also says that governments are acknowledging the need for increased measures and international cooperation and coordination to tackle such crimes.

Born Free has said that it will continue working with other non-governmental organisations to include wildlife crime in legislation, and impose deterring sanctions on criminals.

Elodie Cantaloube, EU policy officer for Born Free, said: “While not perfect, this new legislation should prove to be a stronger deterrent for criminals by increasing the risks they take when committing environmental offences.

“If implemented consistently, it will help ensure uniformity of the rules across member states, removing the opportunities for criminals to take advantage of EU countries with weaker rules, which is crucial given the cross-border nature of most serious environmental crimes, including wildlife trafficking.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.