Biodiversity: My Hotel in Action (PDF, 3.2

Biodiversity: My hotel in action A guide to sustainable use of biological resources IUCN Founded in 1948, IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) brings together States, government agencies and a diverse range of non-governmental organizations in a unique world partnership: over 1000 members in all, spread across some 160 countries. As a Union, IUCN seeks to influence, encourage and assist societies throughout the world to conserve the integrity and diversity of nature and to ensure that any use of natural resources is equitable and ecologically sustainable. A central Secretariat coordinates the IUCN Programme and serves the Union membership, representing their views on the world stage and providing them with the strategies, services, scientific knowledge and technical support they need to achieve their goals. Through its six Commissions, IUCN draws together almost 11,000 expert volunteers in project teams and action groups, focusing in particular on species and biodiversity conservation and the management of habitats and natural resources. The Union has helped many countries to prepare National Conservation Strategies, and demonstrates the application of its knowledge through the field projects it supervises. Operations are increasingly decentralized and are carried forward by an expanding network of regional and country offices, located principally in developing countries. IUCN builds on the strengths of its members, networks and partners to enhance their capacity and to support global alliances to safeguard natural resources at local, regional and global levels.

Accor Accor, the European leader and a major global group in hotels, as well as the global leader in services to corporate clients and public institutions, operates in nearly 100 countries with 150,000 employees. It offers to its clients over 40 years of expertise in two core businesses: Hotels with the Sofitel, Pullman, Novotel, Mercure, Suitehotel, Ibis, all seasons, Etap Hotel, Formule 1 and Motel 6 brands, representing 4,000 hotels and nearly 500,000 rooms in 90 countries, as well as strategically related activities, such as Lenôtre. Services with 30 million users in 40 countries benefiting from Accor Services products in employee and constituent benefits, incentive and rewards and expense management. Biodiversity: My hotel in action A guide to sustainable use of biological resources The designation of geographical entities in this book, and the presentation of the material, do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of IUCN concerning the legal status of any country, territory, or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of IUCN and Accor. This publication has been made possible in part by the generous funding from the French Ministry for Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Planning and Development, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Accor. Published by: IUCN, Gland, Switzerland, in collaboration with Accor Copyright: © 2008 International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Reproduction of this publication for educational or other non-commercial purposes is authorized without prior written permission from the copyright holder provided the source is fully acknowledged. Reproduction of this publication for resale or other commercial purposes is prohibited without prior written permission of the copyright holder. Citation: Biodiversity: My hotel in action A guide to sustainable use of biological resources Gland, Switzerland: IUCN. 128pp. ISBN: 978-2-8317-1071-6 Cover design by: Charlescannon Cover photos (each row from left to right, top to bottom) © Peter Peer Layout by: Charlescannon © Mark EDWARDS / WWF-Canon Produced by: IUCN Business and Biodiversity Programme © DR Accor Printed by: Polygravia SA IUCN Photo Library © IUCN / Enrique Lahmann IUCN Photo Library © IUCN / Sue Mainka Available from: IUCN (International Union IUCN Photo Library © Jim Thorsell for Conservation of Nature) © Serge Detalle Publications Services © Cat HOLLOWAY / WWF-Canon Rue Mauverney 28 © Fabrice Rambert 1196 Gland Switzerland Back cover photos (each row from left to right, top to bottom) Tel +41 22 999 0000 © Darren JEW / WWF-Canon Fax +41 22 999 0020 IUCN Photo Library © Karl-Heinz Gaudry [email protected] IUCN Photo Library © IUCN / Sue Mainka www.iucn.org/publications IUCN Photo Library © IUCN / Ger Bergkamp © Michel GUNTHER / WWF-Canon A catalogue of IUCN publications is also available. © Kevin SCHAFER / WWF-Canon This guide is printed on FSC paper made from wood fibre from © Martin HARVEY / WWF-Canon well-managed forests certified in accordance with the rules of the © Renato Sehn, Director, Ilha do Papagaio Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). © Michel GUNTHER / WWF-Canon IUCN Photo Library © IUCN / Sue Mainka Acknowledgments

The development of this guide was made A special thanks to: possible thanks to the contributions of many The team of Experts who drafted the guide: Richard Tapper, Environment Business & Development Group committed individuals, as well as the generous Frits Hesselink, HECT Consultancy financial support of the French Ministry for Ghislain Dubois and Marie Lootvoet, TEC - Tourisme, Transports, Territoires, Environnement Conseil Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Planning and Sue Wells, Ed Parnell and Martin Jenkins - TRAFFIC consultants Development, the French Ministry of Foreign A committed Editor: Affairs, and Accor. Amy Sweeting

The project Coordinators: Giulia Carbone, Business and Biodiversity Programme, IUCN Patricia Cortijo, Environment Director, Accor Sustainable Development

The patient Reviewers: Marta Andelman, IUCN Commission on Education and Communication Ludovic Armand, Ministry for Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Planning and Development (France) Keerti Averbouch, Ministry for Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Planning and Development (France) Tim Badman, IUCN Protected Areas Programme Maria Ana Borges, IUCN Business and Biodiversity Programme Monica Borobia, Roteiros de Charme Dena Cator, IUCN Species Programme Annabelle Cuttelod, IUCN Mediterranean Programme Saskia de Koning, IUCN Business and Biodiversity Programme Aymeric Eekman, IUCN Mediterranean Programme Benoit Herrmann, Project Manager, Accor Sustainable Development Oliver Hillel, Convention on Biological Diversity Stephane Hotton, Ibis Agen Centre David Huberman, IUCN Economics Andrew Hurd, IUCN Marine Programme IUCN Photo Library © IUCN / Enrique Lahmann

Sandrine Porteron, Global Marketing, Ibis The Members of ACCOR’s Biodiversity Group, who attended the Christophe Quevremont, Accor Group Procurement Department initial workshop in January 2008 that helped structure the guide: Mohammad Rafiq, IUCN Business and Biodiversity Programme Gilles Attias, Manager, Sofitel Athens Airport Pedro Rosabal, IUCN Protected Areas Programme Chris Broodryk, Regional Maintenance Manager, Accor Asia-Pacific Jerome Sanchez, Etap Hotel Aubervilliers Laurent Delporte, Business & City Hotels Brand Manager, Global Marketing Sofitel Juergen E. Seidel, Six Senses Resorts & Spas Pascal Fillon, Sustainable Development Project Manager, Global Deidre Shurland, Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST) Marketing Accor François Simard, IUCN Mediterranean Programme Dan Gilligan, Vice-President of Energy and Environmental Services, Anna Spencely, Species Survival Commission Accor North America Jamie Sweeting, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. Jean Hentz, Sustainable Development Coordinator, Etap/F1 Richard Thomas, TRAFFIC Stephane Hotton, Manager, Ibis Agen Centre Judith Voermans, IUCN Netherlands Committee Sophie Janet, Junior Product Manager, Global Marketing Etap/F1 Paul Warmeant, Integrated Development Solutions Monika Krzerszowiec, Manager Mercure Wroclaw The Testimonials: Jean Baptiste Le Blan, Product Manager, Global Marketing Novotel Eduardo Bagnoli, Owner, Manary Praia Hotel Shanmugam Nanthakumar, Projects & Maintenance Manager, Accor Asia Daniel Cunin, Manager, Novotel Limoges le Lac Domminique Ottiger, Product Manager, Global Marketing Ibis Elisabeth Dissauer, Manager of Mercure Wien City & Accor Austria Johanne Payen, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, Accor Sustainable Development Manager Hospitality Middle East, Africa & Indian Ocean Laurent Guerre-Genton, Manager, Ibis Blois Vallée Maillard Christophe Quevremont, Junior Product Manager, Accor Group Procurement Jean Hentz, Sustainable Development Coordinator, Etap/F1 Claude Ronda, Design Manager, Accor Group Marketing Yves Lecret, Director of Marketing Operational, Novotel France Alice Sadois, Food Quality Manager, Accor Group Procurement Nathanaël Mathieu, Sustainable Development Project Manager, Accor Francisco Sobrinho, Operations Director, Ibis Brasil Lucia Padovan, Support Manager, Franchised Hotels Accor Italy Jean-Marc Schnell, Operations Director, Accor Western Africa Eric Robert, Director of Operational Marketing and Quality, Sofitel Luxury Hotels - Southern Europe, North Africa Jérôme Sanchez, Manager, Etap Hotel Aubervilliers Hélène Roques, Sustainable Development Director, Accor Juergen E. Seidel, Group Director of Property Maintenance, Engineering & Innovation, Six Senses Resorts & Spas Renato Sehn, Owner, Pousada Ilha do Papagaio (Papagaio Island Inn) Helenio and Ildiko Waddington, Owners, Hotel Rosa dos Ventos Contents

How to use this guide 10 Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends 59 Guidelines for the sustainable use of biological resources Part I: Biodiversity and hotels 12 1. Tuna 64 About biodiversity 2. Salmon 68 What does biodiversity do for us? 12 3. Molluscs 72 How do we harm biodiversity? 13 4. Seafoods specific to Asia 80 And what we can do to conserve it? 17 5. Crustaceans 88 Towards a “green” hotel 6. Other fish 96 How do hotels impact on biodiversity? 19 7. Caviar 98 8. Woods for furniture and construction 100 Part II: Taking action in the hotel 23 9. Medicinal and aromatic plants for amenities and spa products 104 Principles for taking biodiversity action in a hotel 24 10. Live animals 108 Taking action in hotel restaurants 28 11. Wildlife-based souvenirs 110 Taking action in guest rooms and public spaces 12. Horticultural plants 114 Wood 36 13. Activities and excursions 118 Amenities and spa products 38 Ornamental plants and animals 40 Taking action in hotel souvenir shops 42 Taking action in hotel grounds and gardens 46 Taking action in the destination Supporting local biodiversity conservation efforts 49 Activities and excursions offered at the tour desk 50 o :Wa r h uiesbnft frsosbe20 species Threatened 7: Box responsible of benefits business the are What 6: 16 Box 15 and design siting, for Guidance 5: Box protect to action international in Milestones tourism 4: and Box biodiversity change, Climate 3: Box threat 13 under Biodiversity species 2: among diversity Box genetic of importance The 1: Box Figures and Boxes 2: Appendix 1: Appendix Appendices o :Svn h okoklnsae ysrig35 systems certification 10:Forest-related Box 33 serving by landscapes oak cork the Saving schemes 9: certification Box agricultural and Seafood 8: Box o 1Mrn qaimCuclcertification Council Aquarium 11:Marine Box o 2Mnrladfsi souvenirs fossil and 12:Mineral Box o 3Ssanbetuimguidelines tourism 13:Sustainable Box o 4Aeso ihboiest value biodiversity high of 14:Areas Box i.2 idvriyrsucsi hotel a in resources Biodiversity 2: Fig. the throughout biodiversity on Impacts 1: Fig. okn ihprnr ntedestination the in partners with Working stakeholders external and internal hotel’s a with Communicating idvriypatcsfrhotels? for practices biodiversity hotels new of stages construction biodiversity and environment the iewt okstoppers cork with wine iecceo hotel a of cycle life 124 120 26 19 14 37 41 43 52 53 22 18 co omt ote‘ln o h lnt rgam 56 programme Planet’ the for ‘Plant the to awareness commits staff Accor raising for place a beach, The hotels bat its and Austria Accor sharks protecting to commits Senses Hotels Six Etap at 44 guests new the Birds, gardens natural for Partnerships souvenirs illegal Discouraging conservation biodiversity supports that souvenir A cosmetics natural More 32 food Sustainable conservation for seafood supply Community-cultivated water 27 natural service: ecosystem an Protecting Mercure at products food local Rediscovering Sofitel at ‘organic’ Eating approach integrated an biodiversity: of Protection Testimonials 55 55 54 52 47 45 39 35 34 31 30

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Part II: Taking action in the hotel Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels How to use this guide

"Every choice you make as a hotelier makes a • Hotel grounds and gardens; and difference to nature, whether it's about the food • The wider destination beyond the hotel’s gates, including recreation opportunities for your guests. you serve in your restaurant, the souvenirs you sell Each section in Part II gives practical suggestions for what in your shop or the local tour advice you give to hotels can do to help conserve biodiversity, testimonials of your guests. Change however can be challenging. what some hotels around the world are already doing, and a We, at IUCN, hope that by providing you with summary of the local and global biodiversity issues surrounding each topic. You may want to use these sections this guide, we can help make the challenge of with managers and senior staff in each of the operational areas. reaching sustainable hotel practice easier." If you need more information to help you implement actions Julia Marton-Lefèvre, Director General, IUCN suggested in the “Taking action …” sections, go to Part III, where 13 technical factsheets developed by TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade monitoring network, provide detailed information Biodiversity plays an important role in the day-to-day life of a on procuring and using a variety of biological resources, from hotel: from the food in the restaurant and wood in furniture and seafood to wood to souvenirs. fittings, to the amenities in the spa, the products of biodiversity are everywhere inside hotels. Outside, plants and animals For ideas on how you can communicate your hotel’s make a hotel’s public areas and gardens attractive for guests, biodiversity actions to staff, guests and other stakeholders, go while beyond the hotel gate, national parks, green spaces, to Appendix 1. And for guidance on ways to set up coasts and natural habitats provide guests with opportunities partnerships in a destination, go to Appendix 2. for recreation and enjoyment. When using this guide, remember that it is important to involve The purpose of this guide is to help owners and managers of all relevant managers and staff in putting the actions into practice. small and large hotels, located in all areas, from cities to The same action may need to be implemented in different ways mountain to coastal areas, to conserve nature. In particular, it is according to the management structure of your hotel (and in designed to guide the sustainable use of biological resources in particular how management roles and responsibilities are the day-to-day operations of hotels. assigned). Take procurement for example: in small hotels, the hotel manager might handle all procurement, while in larger This guide is meant to complement the many tools that are hotels, senior staff may take on this role in each operational already available to help you reduce environmental impacts in area, and hotel groups may organize procurement through a your hotel, by using appropriate siting, design and construction central procurement department. So it is important to make sure practices, and by improving management of energy and water that the right people within your hotel or group are involved. consumption, and disposal of wastewater and solid wastes. To get a quick overview of what biodiversity is, why it is important and how hotels interact with it, read Part I, “All hotels can take action to preserve the natural Biodiversity and Hotels. richness of their region and the Planet, which To find out about specific actions that your hotel can take to protect biodiversity and be biodiversity-friendly, go to the contributes to the quality of tourist destinations. “Taking action …” sections in Part II. Each section focuses on We hope this guide – to which we are happy to a different area of hotel operations, including: be part of – will bring you concrete solutions to • Restaurants; move towards this great goal.” • Guest rooms and public areas; Gilles Pélisson, Chief Executive Officer, Accor • Hotel souvenir shops;

10 Part I: Biodiversity Part II: Taking action Part III: TRAFFIC and hotels in the hotel Recommends – Factsheets on the sustainable use of biological resources

Principles for biodiversity actions

Taking action in hotel restaurants 1. Tuna 2. Salmon 3. Molluscs 4. Seafoods specific to Asia 5. Crustaceans About biodiversity 6. Other fish

• What does biodiversity do for us? 7. Caviar • How do we harm biodiversity? • And what can we do to conserve it? Taking action in guest rooms 8. Woods for furniture Towards a “green” hotel and public areas and construction 9. Medicinal and aromatic plants • How do hotels impact • Wood for amenities and spa products on biodiversity? • Amenities and spa products 10. Live animals • Ornamental plants and animals 12. Horticultural plants

Taking action in hotel 9. Medicinal and aromatic plants souvenir shops for amenities and spa products 11. Wildlife-based souvenirs

Taking action in hotel grounds 12. Horticultural plants and gardens

Taking action in the destination 13. Activities and excursions

• Supporting local biodiversity conservation efforts • Activities and excursions offered at the tour desk

11 Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels © Serge Detalle

About biodiversity

Biodiversity is everywhere. Look around and you’ll see plenty categories according to their physical features and the types of of different types of organisms – insects, plants, birds and organisms that inhabit them. other animals. Go for a walk and you’ll notice different types of One of the features of life on earth is that species depend on habitats and ecosystems – woods, grasslands, ponds, rivers each other. For example, predators like lions in Kenya need and coasts – each with different species of animals and plants. prey like gazelles to feed on. The gazelles, in turn, get their Unless you use a microscope, you won’t see microorganisms, food by eating grass on the vast savannahs of the Masai Mara. but they too are part of the natural world. Draw the links between predators and prey, between prey This is biodiversity – our planet’s diversity of living organisms species and their food plants, and you start to see how and their natural homes. Combining the Greek word for life, different species interact with each other. Change one part of bios, with diversity, the term biodiversity refers simply to the this web, the lions, gazelles or savannahs, and the effects will vast variety of life on Earth. This diversity is expressed in many be felt throughout the links between the species. The ways, from the number of species of living organisms, to the interdependency of species within an ecosystem makes variations between individuals of those species, to the variety biodiversity an important indicator of the health of the living of ways in which these species group together to form different world: when biodiversity starts to decline, it is often a sign that habitats and ecosystems. An ecosystem is the combination of the ecosystem is in trouble, and so is human society. living organisms and the physical environment in which they live. Each main type of ecosystem – from forests, mountains, What does biodiversity do for us? deserts and grasslands, to freshwater, coastal and marine Biodiversity is essential for human life. It provides human ecosystems – can be subdivided into more specific ecosystem society with many important benefits and services: for

12 n evcs ua ciiisaecuigtremendous causing are activities human products services, vital and with society our provides biodiversity Although biodiversity? harm we do How ecosystems. natural by services provided with pesticides and fertilisers artificial are replacing systems farming sustainable freshwater agriculture, of In management supplies. the of is part watersheds important in an ecosystems now of protection defences while sea areas, man-made some to in alternative an as used and is marshes vegetation coastal of restoration man-made example, to For preference alternatives. in services, key provide can that they so restored being to are chance ecosystems Increasingly, a so recover. have world, resources natural natural the and on biodiversity impacts that adverse our is reduce benefits to these us conserve for will that are option they only if just The technology is damaged. with it them and replace well-being, to our possible for not vital are services these of All services: Supporting • services: Cultural • • • services: ecosystem of types basic four describes (http://www.millenniumassessment.org) Assessment Ecosystem Millennium 2005 as The known services. collectively ecosystem are benefits These mitigation disasters. including natural weather, of extreme from us protect help and quality, air and supplies water climate, physical our the influence environment and organisms between Interactions soils. and fertile nutrients produce micro-organisms and and seeds, worms disperse fungi, birds crops, our pollinate insects instance, uretccigadpoiino habitats. of provision and cycling nutrient formation, soil production, biomass ecosystem including other services, all of production the for necessary and benefits; recreational and spiritual, educational aesthetic, including nature, from derive humans purification; water and regulation disease regulation, control, climate flood as such balance, in processes ecological services: Regulating 1); Box medicines (see for security resources crop genetic and as well as and clothing, construction for and fibre furniture for wood as and such fuel, materials, water, fresh food, including provides, biodiversity services: Provisioning hs r h o-aeilvle that values non-material the are These hs r h evcsta epmajor keep that services the are These hs r h evcsta are that services the are These hs r h agbepout that products tangible the are These 13 lmt change: Climate • including: of face, loss now overall we the that for biodiversity reasons of number a are There 2). Box (see natural balance and of stressed, out more are and systems healthy of less remains is What world activity. natural human the of result are a services as ecosystem degraded of being cent natural per the 60 times while 100 rate, estimated extinction an to up of are rates loss current biodiversity that noted Diversity the Biological of on Director Convention Executive the the 2008, on July impacts In human environment. in increase rising rapid to a leading and mobile, is consumption more population and this affluent of more Part becoming rising. also still is and decades, the few over past dramatically on risen impact has an population has World away, biodiversity. throw we all consume, world. we the Everything around species and ecosystems to damage ht:/w.pcc) 0t 0preto ln n animal and plant of percent 30 to 20 (http://www.ipcc.ch), Change Climate on Panel the Intergovernmental to According animal world. and the plant throughout of species distribution the affect that factors and similar drought availability, water patterns, rainfall temperature, http://www.bmu.de/files/pdfs/allgemein/application/pdf/faltblatt_biovielfalt_en.pdf Nature Environment, (Germany) the Safety for Nuclear Ministry and Federal Conservation Life, our of Basis the Biodiversity, Source: security. future food our for diversity species natural protecting of importance This the virus. demonstrates the experience to resistant was that varieties of rice thousands the among one discovered until scientists ruin, financial and starvation outbreak massive The threatened Asia. Southeast to rice India destroying from was crops virus a few 1970s, a the just In of varieties? cultivation the make on not concentrate it to Would sense all? them need we these Do of species. one just of are varieties there known Yet, 100,000 world. the around people for of food billions provide species rice different two Just species among diversity genetic of importance The 1: Box ua-nue lmt hnei altering is change climate Human-induced

Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels Box 2: Biodiversity under threat Extinction threat for Primates The first comprehensive review of the world’s 634 kinds Threatened species of primates in five years has found that almost 50 According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened percent of species are in danger of going extinct, SpeciesTM in 2007, a total of 16,306 species out of according to the 2008 IUCN Red List of Threatened 41,415 assessed species are threatened with Species™. In Asia, more than 70 percent of primates extinction, meaning that they are listed as either are classified as threatened, meaning they could Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable. disappear forever in the near future. These include: “Tropical forest destruction has always been the main • Mammals: 1,094 species cause, but now it appears that hunting is just as serious (22 percent of all known mammals); a threat in some areas” says Russell A. Mittermeier, • Birds: 1,226 species, 2008 data Chair of IUCN’s Primate Specialist Group. As our (12 percent of all known birds); closest relatives, apes, monkeys and other primates are • Fish: 1,201 species important to the health of surrounding ecosystems. The (39 percent of all assessed fish); forests they live in provide vital resources for humans and • Reptiles: 422 species also absorb carbon dioxide that causes climate change. Source: (30 percent of all assessed reptiles); http://cms.iucn.org/about/work/programmes/species/index.cfm?uNewsID=1391 • Amphibians: 1,808 species (31 percent of all assessed amphibians); and Corals under threat • Gymnosperms: 321 species The first comprehensive global assessment of reef- (35 percent of all assessed gymnosperms). building corals revealed in 2008 that one third of the

Source: species are threatened with extinction. The study was IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, available at: http://www.iucnredlist.org (http://www.iucnredlist.org/info/2007RL_Stats_Table%201.pdf) conducted by leading coral experts and the Global Marine Species Assessment (GMSA) – a joint initiative Forest loss of IUCN and Conservation International (CI). Forests have effectively disappeared in 25 countries, Researchers identified the main threats to corals as and another 29 countries have lost more than 90 climate change, destructive fishing, declining water percent of their forest cover. For example: quality from pollution and degradation of coastal • Illegal logging has destroyed more than half of habitats. Indonesia’s forests, and is driving species such Built over millions of years, coral reefs are home to more as the Sumatran rhino, tiger and orang-utan than 25 percent of marine species, making them the toward extinction. most biologically diverse of marine ecosystems. Coral • Unsustainable logging threatens mahogany and reefs harbor fish and other marine resources important forest ecosystems in South America. The majority of for coastal communities. mahogany species have been designated as Source: http://cms.iucn.org/about/work/programmes/species/index.cfm?uNewsID=1279 threatened on the IUCN Red List. Mahogany is often used for fine furniture and other products.

Sources: Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, Chapter 21, Forest and Woodland Systems, in report on Ecosystems and Human Well-being: Current State and Trends http://www.millenniumassessment.org/, Nellemann, C., Miles, L., Kaltenborn, B. P., Virue, M., and Alhenius, H. (Editors), 2007. The last stand of the orangutan – State of emergency: Illegal logging, fire and palm oil in Indonesia’s national parks. United Nations Environment Programme, GRID-Arendal, Norway. http://www.grida.no/_documents/orangutan/full_orangutanreport.pdf Big Leaf Mahogany, Natural Resources Defense Council http://www.nrdc.org/wildlife/habitat/esa/international03.asp

14 aia conversion: Habitat • nrsrcuedvlpet oleoe atradrivers and faster for erodes or soil agriculture, development, and infrastructure timber for cleared where been example, have for forests apparent: too all conversion becoming habitat now of are decades of costs by The degraded activity. or human transformed Earth’s been the already of has half surface about land trawling, from floors and sea reefs, to coral damage of loss rivers, from withdrawal or water rivers of modification physical occupation, inappropriate tmr ifcl ofe stesaiebek perireach earlier up 3). breaks Box sea-ice (see the year as finding feed are to bears difficult polar more Arctic, it the in while world, corals the killing around even and damaging rising are and temperatures storms ocean frequent and Africa in wildlife are threatening droughts frequent more global example, warmer for by temperatures: affected already are species degrees Many 1.5-2 Celsius. than more average by if rise extinction temperatures of global risk at be would assessed species utial anr yrdcn msin fthe a of in emissions grow reducing to by is manner, it sustainable if change climate to respond must rapidly sector tourism the that The recognized 2007. conference in UNWTO by organised Tourism and Change Climate on Conference the International to Second according warming, global main drives the that of gases one dioxide, carbon of of percent emissions 5 global some contribute to estimated is Tourism temperature factors. ocean related in and changes living to its due of 2050 percent by 95 coral to up lose could Reef Great Barrier Australia’s and change, climate highly to elephants vulnerable making are spaces living periods shrinking dry and longer from pressures Africa, and In reefs mountains. coral as such ecosystems for including important tourism, are that resources biodiversity major on has impacts also change change Climate climate warming. of global effects and the to tourism sensitive the highly and is tourism, sector for resource key a is Climate tourism and biodiversity change, Climate 3: Box hog aduecagsand changes land-use Through 15 Overexploitation: • species: Invasive • eodItrainlCneec nCiaeCag n ors raie yUNWTO by organised Tourism and http://www.unwto.org/climate/current/en/pdf/CC_Broch_DavBal_memb_bg.pdf) (2007) Change Challenges Climate Global on to Conference Responding Tourism: International and Second Change Climate on Declaration Davos Change” Climate and “Biodiversity www.cbd.int/doc/bioday/2007/ibd-2007-booklet-01-en.pdf (2007) Diversity Biological on Convention Sources: rcie nterdyt-a operations. day-to-day their in practices biodiversity-friendly incorporating and efficiency energy increasing use, energy their reducing by mitigation climate change to contributions significant make can Hotels tourism. for base resource an environmental as use sustainable long-term to their and ensure change climate to resilience their strengthen to ecosystems natural to and striving biodiversity includes conserve also It change. climate to respond countries and regions poor help to resources financial securing and emissions, gas greenhouse reduce major to a way is which efficiency, energy improving response includes this of Part conditions. climate changing to destinations and businesses tourism and adapting warming global cause that gases greenhouse osnn agrpeaosta r oetthem. eat to try that predators and larger animals poisoning small eating by to wildlife damage Australian major indigenous caused have but to beetles, failed the toads control cane the crops, cane were sugar that destroying beetles control toad: to cane Australia the into is introduced species One invasive sites. an nesting of or example water dramatic food, as such resources key out-competing for by or predation through species of indigenous populations and functions major ecosystem cause to can damage ecosystem an into gardening) exotic for using species by example (for deliberately or accidentally species. animal and plant also many habitats impacts critical adversely of loss The frequently. more flood elnsmn a as eiu elnsi species in declines serious cause can or replenishment reproduction of cycles natural be by can replenished they than faster resources biological other o-aieseisintroduced species Non-native h s fseis uret,wtrand water nutrients, species, of use The

Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels IUCN Photo Library © IUCN / Ger Bergkamp

Box 4: Milestones in international action to protect the environment and biodiversity

1972: “The Limits to Growth,” published by the Club of Rome, predicts that the Earth's limits will be reached in 100 years at current rates of population growth, resource depletion and pollution generation. The United Nations establishes the UN Environment Programme. 1973: The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (commonly known as CITES) is agreed in Washington, DC, USA. The treaty prevents or restricts trade in animal and plant species threatened with extinction. 1979: The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (also known as the CMS or the Bonn Convention) is agreed in Bonn, Germany. 1987: The World Commission on Environment and Development highlights the need for ‘sustainable development’ to protect the environment and combat poverty and global inequalities. 1992: The Convention on Biological Diversity (generally known as the Biodiversity Convention), and the Framework Convention on Climate Change are adopted at the UN Conference on Environment and Development (the ‘Earth Summit’) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, along with Agenda 21- a detailed plan for worldwide implementation of sustainable development. 1997: The Kyoto Protocol, which commits industrial countries to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide, is agreed in Japan. 2002: The 2010 Biodiversity Target – to achieve by 2010 a significant reduction in the current rate of loss of biological diversity – is adopted at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa. 2005: The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment concludes that natural resources are being degraded on a massive scale, damaging the ecological processes that support life on Earth.

16 idvriyls edt eadesdb oit sawhole, a as society by addressed of be causes to The need solutions. loss are biodiversity there threats, of range this Despite it? conserve to do we can what And Pollution: • hm ihotnftlconsequences. in fatal tangled often become with or them, mistake by where them oceans, eat world’s may the species of most in found other are and wastes debris Plastic warming. global to that contribute gases produce and landfills wastewater our polluted of ooze Many amphibians. and and fish health of the development affect seriously and can hormones pollutants animal of mimic types Other adversely flora. and and waters fauna coastal impacting and lakes behind rivers, leaving in decay, zones and dead die then that rapid algae with of begins growth which events of sequence algal a triggering blooms, water, in concentrations nutrient result high can in sewage and fertilisers from Pollution ecosystem functioning. overall and species individual cause to all damage can wastes solid and wastewater pollutants, by threatened today. be hunting to illegal continue the others in many extinctions while or century, declines last species of number contributed specific has a hunting to land, On of fisheries. most major in world’s fish the of stocks damaged has Over-fishing groundwater levels. and wetlands natural intensive threatening for is and agriculture resorts tourism and cities water in of resources overuse The availability. resource and populations hmcl,friiesadpsiie,air pesticides, and fertilisers Chemicals, 17 bu idvriyadconservation. and understanding biodiversity peoples’ about increase at to while helping it, time harvest same to the need the without generate biodiversity to from way income valuable a be can uses, well-managed, non-consumptive when such people However, as forest. trampling the of through effects walk the just even wildlife, or disturbing litter, by leaving example for still impact, can negative activities before a human was have managed it poorly as but visited – has arrived is tourists forest they of a group in a trees after of same number the the – not up is used it being purposes, necessarily cultural or tourism is recreation, biodiversity for When used world. natural non- the manage of carefully uses to consumptive important also is biodiversity it of sustainable, uses are consumptive that ensuring to addition In stocks. freshwater as replenishes such which can process, rainfall, they natural than and faster reproduction up by them replaced using be not require will resources future natural the of for stocks maintaining meet practice, to In generations needs. future their for available of be stocks will the that or resources environment the of health not the while threatening needs human meeting means use Sustainable and biodiversity of limits. uses sustainable our within keep services to do ecosystem is to key much The very 4). still Box is (see there decades, and last environment the the in protect challenge. biodiversity to this done meeting been in has play much to While part a have each we and

Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels Figure 1: Impacts on biodiversity throughout the life cycle of a hotel

2 1

The hotel life cycle

4 3 © Graham Pankhurst

18 3. 2. 1. opposite) illustration (see cycle life hotel The 1: Figure from cycle, life closure: its to of through stage planning each at biodiversity impacts hotel A hotel. a for its true from is away same miles The disposed source. be may waste some and reservoirs away, and distance rivers from from imported piped be water may continents, food other globe: may the and around choices scattered personal be on well depend will The impact environment. this the of on level impact different a has individual Each biodiversity? on impact hotels do How hotel “green” a Towards adn ihntrlsyepatnscnalhl oe to hotel a help all can plantings natural-style with gardens managing and decisions purchasing sustainable appropriately, making waste of disposing and treating food, reducing, produced sustainably and organic more using water efficiently, and energy Using generation. and waste choices increased purchasing through impacts cause can and facilities appliances regular furniture, addition, of In replacement guests. and its renovation of impacts managed, direct are the grounds by its and way the liquid by and produces, solid it the wastes by hotel, the are running that in resources consumed other and food water, energy, the from stage, operational the In patterns. drainage and flows water natural disruption of or or activities erosion construction soil by surface caused as compaction such damage of, of disposed types be other to and has that waste construction of the amount materials, construction for facilities storage workers, inadequate construction for the camps hotel, temporary the of build location to used energy of and type water and materials, amount and sources the of methods, choice construction the place, where taking and are development activities for construction cleared area the of location and stage, construction the At stage. operational the its in significant be how will influence impacts also will physical hotel total the the of and footprint from hotel, come the will construct materials to those used where be will that Choices materials 5). the Box about (see area is biodiversity-sensitive it a if in impacts built major have most will the hotel Even operated design. sustainably and relates siting have its will about hotel choices a to that impact of level the determining stage, planning the At h otipratisein issue important most the oe’ matcmsmainly comes impact hotel’s a mati eemndb h size the by determined is impact 19 4. ovr tfrohrue,o eoihi,adfo h work the from and it, demolish or uses, it, other refurbish for to it hotel convert the from removed materials of disposal stage, closure the At of themselves. use communities the by also resources but environmental hotel the of operations affects sustainable only the not communities host with a relationship Similarly, hotel’s biodiversity. on impacts adverse its reduce 21&zoneid=25 net/templates/eco_template_home.aspx?articleid=4 http://www.ecotourism.org/webmodules/webarticles Organisation Tourism UN World the with Society Ecotourism International The by published Guidelines , Ecolodge International pages07/SDCGuidelines.html http://www.tourismpartnership.org/ International. Conservation and Partnership Tourism Forum’s Leaders Business International the by published Construction and Design Siting, Hotel Sustainable sources: following the in found can be issues these on Guidance biodiversity. protect and resources of wastage avoid the environment, preserve communities, local benefit to sustainable principles, to according ensure designed hotel, is new it a that construct to planning are you If habitats. to and damage species avoid and biodiversity protect to are vital managed is construction is how it and which constructed, from materials the hotel, design the and of site the on choices Responsible environmental impacts. adverse for potential the influence construction will and design siting, to related planning decisions critical issue, an even are decisions and actions operational before However, operations. day-to-day their to in contribute conservation can biodiversity hotels how on focuses guide This hotels new construction of and stages design siting, for Guidance 5: Box oe’ mat oefo the from come impacts hotel’s a ,

Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels involved in these activities. It may be possible to reuse and timber to fisheries, are being damaged and depleted by recycle some materials, but there may also be some toxic overuse. Poorly managed tourism and recreation can damage materials, particularly from older buildings, which will require wildlife through disturbance of animals and plants, or the careful handling and management. A responsible hotel collection of species for souvenirs and ornaments for the operator should also foresee supporting activities of wildlife trade. On the other hand, sustainable commercial uses ecological restoration as required. – such as sustainable tourism – can be good for biodiversity as Responsible siting and design, the effective management of they encourage the protection of ecosystems for income that energy and water consumption, and the proper disposal of they generate, provided they do not overexploit natural wastewater and solid waste are important challenges for any resources by using them in excess of their capacity to hotel hoping to improve the sustainability of its operations. regenerate. Furthermore, responsible biodiversity practices can These topics are covered in detail in a number of other valuable also bring benefits to hotels (see Box 6). publications and resources. See the introduction to Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends for This guide focuses on managing the biodiversity impacts of a more information about the potential impacts of hotel during the operational stage, specifically related to the overexploitation of biological resources. use of biological resources. Many biological resources, from

Box 6: What are the business benefits of responsible • Improving employee productivity and sense of biodiversity practices for hotels? responsibility to the environment: Employees are often strongly motivated by actions to enhance Implementing good environmental practices in hotel biodiversity; such motivation helps to increase operations, including using biological resources more employee productivity and loyalty, and can reduce sustainably, can result in positive business benefits as staff turnover. well as make an important contribution to biodiversity conservation. Key business benefits include: • Securing a hotel’s ‘license to operate’: Implementing good practices for biodiversity • Appealing to engaged consumers: Tourists are demonstrates that a hotel cares about the increasingly motivated by sustainability and environment and runs a responsible business, and contributions to biodiversity conservation, as well as can lead to increased support from government, healthier environments and products. staff and local communities. • Reducing costs: Good biodiversity practices • Attracting investment from socially responsible can actually lower a hotel’s operating costs, by investors: Investors want to be sure that their funds reducing expenses for resource procurement, are invested in businesses that have good usage and disposal. environmental records. • Improving the quality of the destination: Sources: Destinations rich in biodiversity are attractive places, Earthwatch Institute (Europe), International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, World Business Council for Sustainable Development (2002), Business & appeal to quality customers, and offer scope for Biodiversity - The Handbook for Corporate Action, ISBN 2-940240-28-0 biodiversity-based recreational activities. Sustainability (2004), The Business Case for Sustainability Tour Operators’ Initiative for Sustainable Tourism Development (2004), Supply Chain Engagement for Tour Operators – Three Steps Toward Sustainability

20 21

IUCN Photo Library © Karl-Heinz Gaudry Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels Figure 2: Biodiversity resources in a hotel

In the destination: Promoting responsible recreation activities and excursions and supporting local biodiversity conservation efforts.

Hotel grounds and gardens: Using indigenous plants for landscaping and minimizing light and noise.

Hotel restaurants: Seeking sustainable sources of food supplies, especially of fish and seafood, agricultural products and wild game.

Hotel souvenir shops: Guest rooms and public areas: Avoiding souvenirs produced Making responsible choices in terms of wood used for expansion from threatened or protected or renovation projects and furniture; medicinal and aromatic plant and animal species. plants for amenities and spa products; and ornamental plants and animals for public areas. © Graham Pankhurst

22 us om n ulcareas: public and rooms Guest • oe restaurants: Hotel • including: hotel, your the of in areas take different can you find actions will specific you about guide, recommendations the of opposite section 2, this Figure In (see page). gardens from to hotel, rooms a guest of to area restaurants every in used are resources Biodiversity ntehotel the in action Taking II: Part n p rdcs n raetlpat n nml for animals areas. and public plants ornamental and products; amenities spa for and plants aromatic projects and renovation medicinal or furniture; expansion and for used wood of terms in game. wild and agricultural products seafood, and fish of especially supplies, ekn utial ore ffood of sources sustainable Seeking aigrsosbechoices responsible Making 23 oe ovnrshops: souvenir Hotel • ntedestination: the In • gardens: and grounds Hotel • osrainefforts. biodiversity conservation local supporting and excursions and activities noise. and light minimizing and landscaping species. animal and plant protected or threatened rmtn epnil recreation responsible Promoting viigsueispoue from produced souvenirs Avoiding sn nieospat for plants indigenous Using

Part II: Taking action in the hotel © Philippe Wang

Principles for taking biodiversity action in a hotel

Although specific biodiversity conservation practices will vary - Make it simple for staff, clients, suppliers and depending on the particular resource concerned or area of the stakeholders to do what is asked of them; hotel, there are some key principles that apply to all areas: - Provide staff with any necessary training, and ask them • Work internally to introduce management practices and for their ideas and suggestions for biodiversity actions procedures that contribute to biodiversity conservation. that the hotel could support; In particular: - Create incentives for staff to support biodiversity - Appoint a senior manager and/or ‘green team’ to take conservation, e.g. through a ‘Green Employee of the responsibility for your biodiversity actions; Month’ award; - Set clear and realistic targets, monitor and report on - Take time to explain the hotel’s actions and motivations progress towards reaching those targets; behind those actions to staff, guests, suppliers and

24 • • norg etfcto cee o sustainably for schemes certification Encourage - by harvested or produced are that resources use Don’t - threatened from obtained are that items any use Don’t - criteria: biodiversity include that schemes certification sources produced sustainably and/or harvested sustainably possible, wherever areas. that, all Ensure in progress evaluate and Monitor - this in recommendations and principles the Integrate - let:Htl a togyifunetebhvorand behaviour the influence strongly can Hotels Clients: - compliance their on based suppliers Choose Suppliers: - players key other with Work rdcdfood. produced and illegal; be fishing, also dynamite may as such which, of to some damaging biodiversity, particularly or unregulated are that methods 7); Box (see regulations under international banned or is national trade and consumption which for those particular, in http://www.cites.org), Appendices, CITES the of on List or http://www.iucnredlist.org, Red Species, IUCN Threatened the on (either populations or species and System; Management Environmental existing hotel’s your into guide of biodiversity; importance conserving and value the raise about and awareness support their their build to order in stakeholders, pedx1frmr nomto ncmuiaigwith communicating on information more See for conservation. 1 to Appendix contribute to taking actions is what hotel and the biodiversity that enjoy do and can protect they to what biodiversity, local the the about of them characteristics informing by clients their of actions put practice. to into together policies work these can you how with determine biodiversity to on suppliers actions and policies your You discuss them. can from purchased resources the the improve of to sustainability partners other and suppliers details. with contract Work and criteria selection their into criteria biodiversity and environmental performance integrate key and in areas, improve to Hotels suppliers them. their from support obtain can you that services and for goods requirements the specifying by and standards, your with n,i eeat r etfe n aeldunder labelled and certified are relevant, if and, including: , rdcscm from come products 25 ulcatoiisadlclognstos oescan Hotels organisations: local and authorities Public - ihprnr ntedestination. the working in on partners information with more for 2 Appendix travel See the sector. within conservation for you leadership enable leverage and to actions biodiversity hotel’s your of impact the strengthen can organisations conservation with partnerships establishing addition, In actions. positive biodiversity implement hotel your help to provide expertise can organisations Local on business. impact hotel’s significant the a have can etc., areas, protected attractions, infrastructure, local about example decisions, for planning and development local hotel’s control, the direct outside are stakeholders these the of Although activities biodiversity. of protection the to to do contribute can stakeholder each what biodiversity and of conservation importance the hotel, the of the contributions about awareness raising by areas, protected of managers and communities local organisations, conservation authorities, public other businesses, including destination, the in stakeholders influence stakeholders. external and internal hotel’s a

Part II: Taking action in the hotel Box 7: Threatened species partners. It produces the Red List in cooperation with BirdLife International, the Zoological Society of London, The IUCN Red List Conservation International and Nature Serve. TM The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species , which is While the IUCN Red List is a global assessment, a the world's most comprehensive and scientifically- number of countries have also developed their own based inventory of the global conservation status of national and regional red lists for plants and animals. plant and animal species, evaluates the extinction risk Source: of thousands of species and subspecies in all regions of IUCN, 2001. IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria: Version 3.1. IUCN Species Survival Commission. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge, UK. ii + 30 pp the world. The Red List includes three main categories http://www.iucnredlist.org/ of threatened species: CITES • Critically Endangered Species are those that face an CITES is the common name for the Convention on extremely high risk of extinction in the immediate International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild future, because the population has declined by 80 Fauna and Flora, established in 1973, which regulates percent or more over the last 10 years, is confined to international trade in threatened species and products a very small area of habitat, or has fewer than 250 derived from them. Trade in wildlife and wildlife mature individuals. The Javan rhino is one example. products can put severe pressure on some • Endangered Species are those facing a very high risk populations of animals and plants, and, linked with of extinction in the near future, because the other factors such as habitat loss, can bring some population has declined by 50 percent or more over species close to extinction. the last 10 years, is confined to an area of less than CITES currently provides protection to more than 5,000 square kilometres of fragmented habitat, or 30,000 species of animals and plants, whether they are has fewer than 2,500 mature individuals. Examples traded as live specimens or used to make other include the cheetah, tiger and African wild dog. products. The treaty includes three levels of protection, • Vulnerable Species are those that face a high risk of which are listed in three appendices to the treaty: extinction in the medium-term, because the population • Appendix I lists species threatened with extinction. has declined by 30 percent or more over the last 10 Trade in specimens of these species is permitted years, is confined to an area of less than 20,000 only in exceptional circumstances. square kilometres of fragmented habitat, or has less than 10,000 mature individuals. Vulnerable species • Appendix II includes species not necessarily include the Komodo dragon, India bison, humphead threatened with extinction, but in which trade must and rainbow parrotfish, seahorses, giant clam, great be controlled in order to avoid utilisation incompatible white shark, polar bear, African lion and elephant, with their survival. hippopotamus, and rockhopper penguin. Many • Appendix III includes species that are protected in parrots, amphibians, bats and eagles are also listed at least one country, which has asked other countries as vulnerable, as are several trees, including the shea for assistance in controlling the trade. butter, sandalwood, red cedar and Brazil nut trees. Each country adopts its own domestic legislation to Since its establishment in 1963, the number of species ensure that CITES is implemented at the national level. covered by the Red List is increasing all the time: by There is some variation of the requirements from one 1988, it covered all bird species, and by 1996 all country to another, and it is always necessary to check mammals were included. By 2007, 41,415 species national laws, which may have stricter requirements worldwide had been assessed. The Red List is than those of the convention. compiled by IUCN’s Species Programme using data Source: Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, What is from the Species Survival Commission and other CITES?, http://www.cites.org/eng/disc/what.shtml ; http://www.cites.org/eng/app/appendices.shtml

26 dniyn h cin,explaining actions, the identifying in helped which International, BirdLife and (LPO) association protection bird French the with partnership close in produced was biodiversity section to The relating stake. at is what of expert an by explanation an with introduced is charter the in theme Each actions. the implementing for suggestions offering guide detailed a with biodiversity, and layer, ozone the energy, water, including themes, eight on based initiatives 65 of consists charter new The countries. destination in representatives of network a and managers hotel with liaison close in Department, Development Sustainable Accor’s by revised completely was Charter the 2005, In association. an with partnership in environment local the of protection and management waste use, energy and water concerning actions tangible 15 included and hoteliers at aimed was charter original This hotels. its within Charter Environment Hotel the introduced Accor 1998, In rtcino idvriy nitgae approach integrated an biodiversity: of Protection uprigboiest conservation, biodiversity in supporting further go to wishes their reflecting and managers hotel with consultation in up drawn charter, new This forests. certified FSC- from sourced paper and organic foods certified of use the as such resources, natural protecting at sections aimed other the in actions also are There initiatives. local of promotion the and trees of plants, planting local the of use the to areas, on green fertilizers and pesticides of use – the eliminating or – reducing from range biodiversity to relating actions The experts. Programme Environment Nations United by introduced are sections other The society. human for the consequences and species of extinction the on introduction the providing and them

© Accor 27 www.accor.com Accor Development Sustainable Director, Cortijo Patricia targets. improvement define Brands the and divisions regional the year, Each products. produced organically use 600 than more and insecticides, of use their reduced have 800 than more locality, the to suited plants select hotels 1,000 than more encouraging: are biodiversity of protection the terms of in far so achieved results The taken. has it actions the on tool reporting Group the in reports hotel Each hotels. Accor 3,900 the of percent in 84 deployed was it 2007, In the hotels. by received well very been has

Part II: Taking action in the hotel © Joël Biletta

Taking action in hotel restaurants

WHAT ARE THE LOCAL AND For example, tuna fishing using purse-seine nets risks catching GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY ISSUES? certain dolphin species that are usually present among shoals Much of our food comes from plants and animals that have of yellow-fin tuna. The use of driftnets, which are the most been domesticated for agriculture, and some of it comes from destructive type of fishing nets, is forbidden in many parts of the world today. Over 75 percent of the world’s major fisheries are harvesting of wild stocks through fishing or hunting. The ways in which food is harvested, cultivated and produced can have so heavily exploited that reproduction cycles cannot guarantee major impacts on biodiversity. Areas of intensive agriculture the sustainability of continued catches, while deep seabed support significantly less habitat and biodiversity than the habitats are now vulnerable to destruction by bottom trawlers, ecosystems they replace, while for foods collected from the which catch a significant amount of non-targeted species, or by- wild, overharvesting threatens wild populations and the natural catch, which are then thrown away. Without healthy habitats, habitats where they are found. The major biodiversity issues for fish populations and other marine biodiversity will decline hotel restaurants are linked to the production and harvesting of further. Many fisheries in freshwater and inshore areas are also fish and other types of seafood, the hunting of wild game, and at risk from overfishing and destructive fishing methods. the farming of fruit and vegetables, meat and fish. Unsustainable fishing practices can also have an unintended effect on non-marine species. Each year, 100,000 albatrosses Fish and other types of seafood die on fishing hooks from commercial longline fishing for tuna, The unsustainable harvesting of fish and seafood from the swordfish and other species. Of the 22 species of albatross in world’s oceans, rivers and lakes is leading to a decline of the world, 18 are threatened with extinction. global marine and freshwater biodiversity. Overfishing is See TRAFFIC Factsheets 1 to 7 in Part III for more information depleting fish stocks, while intensive and destructive fishing about fish and other types of seafood. methods are damaging marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

28 rcniet.Ti motdfe sgnrlyas intensively also generally is feed countries imported other This from continents. often or and farms other animal from and imported rates feed growth increase high to at hormones disease levels, prevent stocking to antibiotics of use feedlots, with and combined barns in stocking animal based high-density is around production meat intensive of A proportion production. significant vegetable and fruit similar intensive has to and impacts intensive highly often is production Meat production Meat important. also is species Buying sourced biodiversity. locally to threats and the pesticides reduce artificial greatly of fertilisers use the minimize or methods exclude farming that sustainable and organic alternative, an As main the species. of threatened one of species, causes other intensive for of loss types habitat all is of agriculture impacts and largest crops the of of varieties One traditional livestock. of loss declines and monocultures, diversity, in genetic crops in of planting use, high water control, of erosion levels and use land from clearing, arise land biodiversity inappropriate on impacts key many Other in species. decline bird a including biodiversity, to on led impacts have negative run-off, associated with pesticides often of fertilisers, levels and high use that methods farming Intensive vegetables and Fruits Resources Food Farmed Convention Bern (http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/cultureheritage/conventions/bern/). the as known also and Habitats, Wildlife Natural European of Conservation the the under on developed Convention been has Biodiversity Charter and European Hunting a on Europe, In stocks. game of management sustainable for regulations hunting management have game countries and Many biodiversity. of use represent sustainable and a economies local and conservation of support both which operations, ranching game and wild hunting well-managed obtain sustainable as to such important sources, is sustainable it from foods, meats such offer to plan you If species. in bird factor some a of is decline hunting the Europe in the example, of For populations species. damages hunted meat for game wild of uncontrolled hunting and with excessive made However, dishes meats. and game foods local sample and to menus, keen some are on tourists item many speciality featured a is game Wild game Wild 29 • • • • • • • Internally DO: I CAN WHAT (http://www.feap.info). biodiversity and the environment on impacts avoiding promoting and for aquaculture conduct sustainable of code a developed has Producers (FEAP) Aquaculture European of In Federation populations. the fish Europe, native with compete and fish escape farmed parasites regularly and and ecosystem, disease natural of the free contaminate fish can farmed keep chemicals to other used and are Antibiotics can that rivers. farms or fish lakes by sea, used the cages pollute the from waste managed. food and and established Fish badly are activities the on if effects biodiversity adverse have can farming) (fish Aquaculture Aquaculture systems. production, farming crop balanced for of suitable part not and is a that be land also of can use production valuable Meat farm. same feed the and on grazing production often – feeds animal produced and locally stocking lower-density uses production meat Sustainable carefully. of disposed environmental not of are risk they the if run damage that wastes liquid and amounts manure large of creates and farming grains animal as high-density it and providing pulses; than area land meat more as much value requires food same the providing Furthermore, produced. ihntehtlgons ro nte site. another on or grounds, either hotel orchard, the and/or within greenhouses garden, kitchen a up Set in sources sustainable restaurant. from your foods using on ideas ask for and them sources sustainable from sourced and foods understand appreciate customers helping in staff your Educate check regularly regulations. to local need the on staff your Educate (fish, game), food and of seafood harvesting and production issues the biodiversity to about related staff your of awareness the Raise menus. foods your produced on locally on based dishes regional 8). Introduce Box (see schemes certification organic sustainable, or by trade certified fair been have that items food Choose sources. sustainable from except or depleted, regionally globally locally, are that species purchasing Avoid

Part II: Taking action in the hotel With my suppliers With my clients • Explain to your current suppliers that you want to purchase • Inform customers about the issues concerning sustainable foods from sustainable sources and ask them how you can food production, harvesting methods that promote work together to put this goal into practice. biodiversity conservation, sustainable labels and the origin of food. • Find new local suppliers by searching the internet and/or contacting the government agriculture ministry. Explain • Inform customers about the benefits of sustainable food for to suppliers your purchasing standards. Help them directly themselves, both in terms of health and improved taste. to develop their activities or put them in contact with • Create a small exhibition of local products or photos of local specialised associations that can help them improve food production and harvesting equipment. their practices. • Invite guests and suppliers to visit the kitchen gardens, • Encourage and support certification schemes for sustainably greenhouses and/or orchards, as a means of raising awareness produced products. and enhancing the natural experience of their stays. • Seek out suppliers who use sustainable packaging materials and systems, such as natural cork (see Box 9).

In partnership with public authorities and local organisations • Assist local food producers and suppliers to produce and store food supplies so that they meet your quality requirements and demand (e.g. by supplying cool boxes with ice for storing local sustainably caught fish, or by providing suitable seeds, tools or other items necessary for cultivation).

Eating ‘organic’ at Sofitel

One of the 65 key points listed in the basic organic food products, contribution to a balanced diet. They Accor’s Hotel Environment Charter whilst Chapoutier was selected for also explain the process of organic involves serving a meal made from two biodynamic wines, one white and farming, differentiating it from organic ingredients. In France, Sofitel one red. Malongo, meanwhile, intensive commercial farming, and decided to experiment with this became a partner in this operation highlighting the impacts of the two recommendation, which combines and added its organic coffee, types of farming, particularly in terms environmental conservation with the use Ethiopian Mocha, to the menu. Finally, of environmental conservation and the of high-quality ingredients. Each hotel each chef was free to contact a local local economy. offers its guests a menu promoting partner who could supply additional This operation provided an opportunity specialities based on organic labelled products, bread in particular. to show that the substantial advantages products. Other initiatives, focused on The hotel managers were then free to of organic food – environmental organic bread and biodynamic wine, set the price of their menu items as conservation, maintaining local species are also being implemented. well as their profit margin. and supporting small farmers – are Thanks to negotiations with certain Two types of leaflets describing the not incompatible with the luxury suppliers specialising in the sale of operation’s objectives were printed on hotel business. organic products, all the group’s recycled paper, one aimed at Eric Robert restaurants have been able to obtain employees and the other at Marketing and Quality Manager sufficient volumes without incurring customers. These leaflets promote Sofitel Luxury Hotel significant extra costs. Vivrao supplied organic products and their www.accor.com

30 idvriy hog t Ako Taste” of “Ark its Through biodiversity. defend to and education spread taste to are aims Its products. local consuming of benefits the promotes that association an is Food Slow manager. operation’s the explained disappearing,” of danger in are that products and producers local supporting are we Moreover, production. local promoting are we operation, this to Thanks community. local the in involved actively are hotels “Our association. Food Slow international the and Italy in hotels Mercure between formed partnership a of objectives the are biodiversity supporting and buds taste people’s Educating eicvrn oa odpout tMercure at products food local Rediscovering ht rm lutae h rue a “route” the illustrates frame photo digital a and shown is the association about film a restaurant, the In customers. to offered are association Food Slow the on brochures information and trained, are staff members Hotel menu. tasting chef’s their in included are food, farmed organically on based products, These (the Presidia). food artisan an save to producers artisan of groups assist to Food projects Slow of result the are that products three chooses hotels Italian 20 the of each specifically, More production. agricultural of world the and environment the to responsibility of deep sense a with taste of pleasure the combine to tries therefore Food Slow biodiversity. improve and conserve can which model, agricultural less-harmful and a less-intensive develop to is aim The know-how. traditional respecting whilst products high-quality make who producers agri-food traditional supports thus It methods. traditional local, using produced are and of disappearing danger in are that taste exceptional with products local of rediscovery the promotes it example, for programme 31 www.accor.com Italy Mercure Coordinator Operations Padovan Lucia clientele. international its to message strong a high-end sending its positioning, in level a up moved has chain Mercure the partnership, this with edge: competitive a the company gives also It food.” excellent with it accompany to natural only it seemed so menu, wine great a offered already “We manager. the added customers,” our to commitment our of part is collaboration this Mercure, “For food. high-quality discover customers help to seeks also initiative the items, locally produced on focus the to addition In label. Food Slow the bearing products all of quality the controls regularly association the Moreover, catalogue. Presidia a of publication the to led which communication, and implementation of terms in of support deal great a provided Food Slow Mercure. at appointed was manager Food Slow a project, this coordinate to order In plate. the customer’s to origin its from takes product

Hotel Rosa dos Ventos is located in a The water has been analysed regularly including potential clearing, private park of 1 million m2, of which since 2002 and classified as Natural contamination by agrochemical 8,000 m2 are built property, Fluorinated Mineral Water. The various use associated with agro-industries, representing less than one percent of natural water sources are preserved and accelerated erosion. It has also its total area. More than 50 percent of and monitored regularly by hotel staff, raised the awareness of guests and the property is preserved Atlantic who have been trained to understand the local communities about the rainforest. In 1990, it became the and value such sources for what they value of environmental services first hotel member of Relais & represent for biodiversity conservation provided by natural, forested Chateaux in Brazil. and human well-being and catchments and the importance The hotel is situated near two consumption, particularly outside the and health benefits of such natural protected areas that are part of an hotel property (as such water sources fluorinated water sources. For the important ecological corridor for also are found within the region). Care hotel in particular, it is an added conservation of the natural resources is taken to preserve natural rainforest value to offer such a luxury item of the Atlantic Rainforest of Rio de vegetation and to prevent and to be able to contribute to the Janeiro. The region also acts as a disturbances to water sources from maintenance of biodiversity and “bread basket” for the city and state walking, movement by surrounding ecosystem health within the of Rio de Janeiro, with the largest domestic animals and other activities. threatened Atlantic rain forest. production of vegetables and fruits in The goal is to maintain the sources in Using Hotel Rosa dos Ventos the state, mostly originating from a pristine state and use only a portion as an example, the goal is now to small and medium family-based of the water sources on a rotational mobilise and form partnerships with agricultural businesses. Hence, the basis. Regular chemical analyses are adjacent land owners to establish rational use of a valuable resource carried out and reports produced. biological corridors contributing such as freshwater, which is used for In the hotel, the natural mineral water to the expansion of preserved many purposes and is vital to is used in showers, baths and sinks of rainforest areas and biodiversity ecosystem conservation, is a key guests´ suites and apartments, as well conservation, thus enhancing the issue here, with the preservation of as in the restaurant, saunas, integrity and effective maintenance natural water sources as an integral swimming pools and other hotel of existing protected areas of the part of water conservation measures. facilities and services. Through the Serra Fluminense. As of 2008, Hotel Rosa dos Ventos is information folder in the apartments, Helenio and Ildiko Waddington offering a unique attraction to its guests are advised of the existence of Owners guests: naturally fluorinated mineral naturally fluorinated water sources Hotel Rosa dos Ventos water from the existing natural and the option to consume such water www.hotelrosadosventos.com.br groundwater fonts within the hotel in the hotel. property. This may be considered a In terms of environmental and social luxury, as few hotels have the benefits, this action has contributed to possibility to offer this special treat. the prevention of improper land use,

Photos © Hotel Rosa dos Ventos

32 cee htaecmail ihteE n U.S. and EU the with compatible are that labelling schemes organic national other strict many similarly though have U.S., countries the and EU the are by labelling operated food organic for schemes main The Standards. Environmental and Social Practice Setting Good for of Code (ISEAL) Alliance Labelling and Accreditation Environmental and Social meet International below the described schemes the of All production. agricultural in protection biodiversity promote that criteria incorporate schemes labelling and certification agriculture sustainable and fairtrade Organic, certification Agricultural www.msc.org see information, more For fishery. the of intensity or location scale, type, size, the of irrespective its programme to certification access equal promotes and in countries, including developing expand, to continuing is The scheme eco-label. MSC MSC blue the bear the fisheries from certified resulting products seafood 1,000 than more Worldwide, consumption. human world’s for the catches of lobster percent 18 and world’s catch, the whitefish of prime percent 40 catch, salmon the wild of world’s percent 42 than of more tonnes representing million seafood, 4 over of catches annual record in fisheries 30 the Together, to pre-assessment. 20 confidential another and assessment 26 under with 64 programme, certified, MSC the in 90 engaged over are 2008, fisheries of As available. widely are seafood products and seafood fish, labelled and MSC-certified certification. fisheries for guidelines Agriculture Organisation and Food UN and and Standards Social Environmental Setting for Practice ISEAL Good the of with Code consistent is that the eco-label is seafood It only fisheries. capture wild for programme labelling eco- and certification environmental only recognised the widely runs (MSC) Council Stewardship Marine The certification Fisheries schemes certification agricultural and Seafood 8: Box 33 http://www.ecoagriculture.org • http://www.rainforest- • http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/marketplace/ • http://www.transfair.ca/ • http://www.transfairusa.org/ • http://www.maxhavelaar.ch/ • http://www.fairtrade.net/ • http://www.organicguide.com/ • http://www.ifoam.org/ • http://www.ams.usda.gov/ • http://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/qual/organic/ • see: please criteria, their in biodiversity that include schemes certification on information more For treatment. fair workers receive and conserved is rainforest healthy where from farms come that ferns and nuts macadamia plantains, fruit, passion pineapple, guava, juice, orange bananas, chocolate, cocoa, coffee, includes which products, agricultural its certified for of Alliance programme Rainforest the by used are These standards (SAN). Network Agriculture Sustainable the set by are certification agriculture sustainable flowers. for and Standards cotton as well sugar, as herbs, wine, and and spices tea rice, seeds, oil and nuts fruit, juices, fresh coffee, cocoa, oranges, honey, covers bananas, currently schemes FLO-compatible and FLO by Certification (FLO). International Organisations Fairtrade Labelling the by specified as in circumstances used limited be may of pesticides range some wide although a pesticides, of use exclude totally and agriculture sustainable promote standards labelling Fairtrade and raw foodstuffs. main processed all for available widely is produce Organic-labelled countries. many in operate schemes that certification organic national the of details up-to-date provides (IFOAM) Movements Agriculture Organic of Federation International The systems. alliance.org/programs/agriculture/san/index.html

Part II: Taking action in the hotel Community-cultivated seafood for conservation

Located off Sonhos Beach in the municipality of Palhoça, Santa Catarina state, Brazil, the 142,000 m² Papagaio Island has operated as an inn since 1994. In 1984, the family that owns the island acquired 60,000 m2 in a coastal continental area across from the island, transforming it into an area for natural recovery of the rainforest. Although Papagaio Island is located in one of the best preserved coastal zones of the State of Santa Catarina, fishing, inappropriate aquaculture, unregulated coastal development and unmanaged marine recreational activities (boating, jet ski rides, etc.) threaten local ecosystems and Photos © Renato Sehn, Director, Ilha do Papagaio biodiversity. Furthermore, the decline of traditional maritime activity and fishing has led to an exodus of local fishermen. To prevent the loss of coastal biodiversity from unsustainable fishing practices (including fishing of all species and size, and removal of mussels and shellfish from coastal rocky shores by tourists and fishermen) as well the loss of the social and cultural fabric of the region, the owner of the Papagaio Island Inn the fisheries sector to improve sustainable industry associated with a decided to promote the cultivation of sustainable management of the tourism destination has contributed to oysters (as well as mussels and other activity, and 14 different producers minimization of threats to biodiversity shellfish) using sustainable methods. have taken up sustainable oyster and and maintenance of protected areas, Through this action, the hotel aims to mussel cultivation. Local fishermen while the hotel has been able to participate in the conservation of local are also involved in all the aspects of contribute to community cultural and marine biodiversity and promote production, including manufacture of economic development. economic and social development gear, selection and classification of among local fishermen who are To take the project a step further, oysters, daily maintenance, and dependent on the marine resources specific training in sustainable making and selling souvenirs from the for their livelihoods. economic alternatives is planned for shells. Guests of the hotel can local communities and fishermen. The This project, a pioneer in Brazil, began observe oyster cultivation firsthand aim is to enhance skills and provide in 1988. Initial production was 300 from the inn and can savour the fresh consensus on business guidelines and dozen oysters/month, and the project catch every day in the hotel restaurant best practices, based on the various employed two local staff members. through its delicious menu options. successful efforts to achieve Today, the company, Moluskus Marine Key benefits of this initiative include sustainable fisheries in the region. Farm, produces oysters on 30 long the strengthening of sustainable lines in seven hectares and employs Renato Sehn fisheries management among local 16 local staff. The 1 million oysters Owner fishers and the adoption and produced each year are sold both Pousada Ilha do Papagaio implementation of best practices nationally and internationally. (Papagaio Island Inn) through partnerships established with Partnerships were established with www.papagaio.com.br the fisheries sector. The creation of a

34 Box 9: Saving the cork oak landscapes by serving wine Cork for bottle stoppers accounts for almost 70 percent with cork stoppers of the total value of the cork market. However, with increasing use of plastic and metal stoppers for wine For centuries, wine bottles have been sealed with cork bottles, sales of cork stoppers are declining. As the stoppers made from the bark of the cork oak tree value of cork forests declines, the forests and their (Quercus suber). Cork is a natural product – it is biodiversity are at higher risk of fires, degradation or renewable and biodegradable. Harvesting cork is one of being converted to other uses. the most environmentally friendly harvesting processes on Earth: no single tree is cut to harvest the cork, and You can take action in your hotel to help preserve the after harvesting, the trees produce more bark. cork forests by only purchasing wine in bottles sealed with cork stoppers. As a further step for additional Cork oak forests are found only in Portugal, Spain, Italy, assurance that cork comes from a France, Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. They are ranked well-managed forest, select wines in bottles sealed with among the most valuable in terms of biodiversity in the FSC-certified cork stoppers (see Box 10 for details of world for the endemic plants and endangered species FSC certification). they support, including the Iberian lynx, the Iberian Sources: imperial eagle, and the Barbary deer. The economic assets.wwf.es/downloads/factsheet_dagon_ok.pdf value of cork oak forests means they – and their www.panda.org/about_wwf/where_we_work/europe/ what_we_do/mediterranean/about/forests/cork/index.cfm biodiversity - are protected by the communities that www.fsc.org harvest the cork.

Sustainable food

Six Senses is an international luxury to the indiscriminate catching of to identify products that are available resort and spa group, actively different fish species, destruction of locally depending on the season, put involved in biodiversity conservation the seabed, and other negative into place farming, fishing and other and in the sustainable development of impacts. For some species, such as production techniques that are aligned tourism in general. catfish and oysters, there are strict with sustainability principles, and, in The group has introduced strong requirements for sourcing only from some cases, even request principles on food supplies, which sustainable fish farms. certifications. They establish long- apply to all of their hotels. They In addition to considerations related to term relationships with local purchase locally produced fruit and the conservation of biodiversity and fishermen, guaranteeing that they will vegetables, meat, fish and seafood, the environment, other principles are buy their catches if they meet the and also try to ensure that the also applied to this list of banned group’s criteria. Part II: Taking action in the hotel techniques used to produce these foods. Some food items are placed on Six Senses ensures all managers items are environmentally friendly. the list because they are not and staff are trained and well- The group has drawn up a list of foods considered to be healthy (milk informed on the issue. Thus, staff that are prohibited or are subject to chocolate or white bread, products members develop an awareness strict consumption conditions. Certain containing too many additives, etc.), and a global understanding of the fish, whose stocks are now or because they come from parts of sustainability issues in food dramatically low due to overfishing, the world where the political situation production and supply and are able are banned. Many are only permitted if contravenes human rights, or where to ensure sustainable sourcing. there is a certificate guaranteeing labour rights are not respected. Juergen E. Seidel responsible fishing conditions, as in the A list was drawn up for the whole Group Director of Property case of tuna and shark. For example, group, but each hotel is encouraged Maintenance, Engineering & line-caught fish are strongly to complete it in accordance with Innovation recommended, because mass fishing local requirements, the species Six Senses Resorts & Spas techniques (nets, bottom trawling, available locally and the supply www.sixsenses.com etc.) have a particularly destructive conditions. Each hotel then works in impact on marine biodiversity, leading collaboration with local communities

35 Taking action in guest rooms and public areas

Wood

WHAT ARE THE LOCAL AND GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY ISSUES?

Unsustainable use of wood for construction, furniture and other uses threatens rich and diverse forests around the world. Clear- cut logging of old growth forests destroys forest ecosystems, while intensive forestry plantations can damage the environment through habitat conversion or the use of pesticides and chemicals. For example, unsustainable logging threatens mahogany and other forest ecosystems in South America, causing most species of mahogany to be listed as threatened on the IUCN Red List. In Indonesia, illegal logging has destroyed more than half of the country’s forests, and is driving species like the Sumatran rhino, tiger and orang-utan towards extinction. Forest ecosystems are home to more than half of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity, protect water catchments, control water flows to prevent flooding, stabilize soils to prevent erosion and moderate climate change by storing carbon that would otherwise be released to the atmosphere. Degrading forests destroys the vital products and services that these ecosystems provide, including fuel, traditional medicines and food for human communities. See TRAFFIC Factsheet 8 in Part III for more information on woods for furniture and construction.

WHAT CAN I DO:

Internally • Identify the wood products purchased by your hotel that may negatively impact high-biodiversity forests, and substitute alternative wood products from sustainable sources when making future purchases. • Explain to your staff the need to obtain wood from sustainably managed sources and the need to regularly check local forestry regulations, and ensure that purchased timber and forest-derived products have been harvested in compliance with those regulations.

© Fabrice Rambert • Re-use wood whenever possible. • Provide staff with information about the sustainable wood used in your hotel, and about activities your hotel takes to support tree planting and sustainable forestry.

36 tnad hr r 7sprt tt,rgoa and regional state, separate 37 are There SFI Standard. the to third-party-certified of independently million are 127 which acres, million 137 across participants 219 includes programme the Today, products. forest to certify programme labelling SFI the developed the organisation 2002, In 1997. in organisation independent an became (SFI) Initaitive the Forestry States, Sustainable United the the in for industry conduct products of forest code a as Association Forest Paper American and the by 1994 in established Originally Initiative Forestry Sustainable www.fsc.org see: information, more For countries. developing of in area including total forests, the FSC-certified expand to continuing is The scheme trademark. FSC FSC the carrying and wood FSC- certified using produced are and products standards, thousand FSC several to according have date countries to 75 certified than been more in hectares million 94 countries. Over 45 in initiatives national of network its through operates FSC of management. growth forest the responsible support that products recognise the to around world purchasers allows forest label related FSC and The wood products. their on logo FSC then the and use certification request can standards these that meet Forests Stewardship. Forest of Principles and respected recognised of standard worldwide its forests through world's the of management viable economically and beneficial socially responsible, environmentally promotes (FSC) Council Stewardship Forest The Council Stewardship Forest systems certification Forest-related 10: Box 37 o oeifrain e:www.pefc.org see: information, more forests. For certified of hectares million 200 than for more account together schemes 25 These assessors. independent and consultation assessment public rigorous involving a process through been have 25 which membership, of its in systems certification forest national independent 35 has currently forest PEFC certification schemes. national of recognition mutual and assessment the for organisation non-governmental non-profit, independent, an is (PEFC) schemes Certification Forest of Endorsement the for Programme the 1999, in Founded schemes Certification Forest of Endorsement the for Programme www.certificationcanada.org/english/ see: information, more For Standard. the in requirements management forestry sustainable the of audit third-party, independent go a must through organisation an continued certified, of be To principle improvement. the on focuses also result. system desired The the achieve to systems and performance participation, public areas: three The covers 1996. standard in published first was Management Forest Sustainable on Standard National Canada’s (CSA), Association Standards Canadian the by Developed Management Forest Sustainable on Standard National Canadian www.sfiprogram.org see: information, more For 1995. since foresters and loggers nearly 100,000 trained has organisation the and America, North in Committees Implementation SFI provincial

Part II: Taking action in the hotel With my suppliers Amenities and spa products • Avoid purchasing timber and forest-derived products from species that are locally, regionally or globally depleted, that WHAT ARE THE LOCAL AND are of unknown origin, or from areas which are over- GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY ISSUES? harvested, and/or that have been harvested illegally. Plants have always been a basic resource for human health • Explain to your suppliers that you want to purchase wood and well-being, and more than 70,000 plant species are used from regulated and sustainable sources, for example wood around the world for health and body care purposes. Interest in and wood products that have been certified by the Forest and demand for plant-based body care products is increasing Stewardship Council or other forest-related certification worldwide, particularly in rapidly expanding urban societies. schemes (see Box 10), and ask them how you can work Increased consumption of body care products derived from together to put this objective into practice. plants is putting increased pressure on a resource that is In partnership with public authorities and local organisations largely harvested from depleted wild populations in shrinking wild habitats. • Support local sustainable forestry projects, such as establishment of local plant nurseries, forest restoration, or As many as 15,000 species of medicinal and aromatic plants promotion of sustainable timber and fuel wood production. are threatened by over-harvesting or loss of habitat. One Your hotel can support projects like this by purchasing example of this trend is the sandalwood tree, Santalum album: timber and fuel wood from them; providing assistance such mature sandalwood trees are felled to extract their aromatic oil as funding for basic training; obtaining suitable seeds, tools for use in body care products and perfumes, and, as a result, and other items necessary for plant nurseries; and by the species is seriously threatened in India, Indonesia, Papua distributing information about their efforts. New Guinea and the South Pacific. • Support local projects that help communities use fuel wood See TRAFFIC Factsheet 9 in Part III for more information on more efficiently, such as the introduction of more efficient medicinal and aromatic plants for amenities and spa products. wood-fuelled stoves and alternative renewable energy supply options, such as micro-hydropower schemes. WHAT CAN I DO:

With my clients Internally • Provide information to guests on how you integrate • Check all products containing plant-based products to biodiversity concerns in relation to wood, for example about ensure that the plants used to make these products: what certified wood the hotel uses and what local forest - have been harvested sustainably, and have been conservation projects the hotel supports. In cases where collected from cultivated sources that do not endanger your hotel has antique furniture, explain to your guests that wild sources of supply. Appropriate standards include the the wood in the antique furniture originates from a time International Standard for Sustainable Wild Collection of when biodiversity was not under the same threat as today. Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (http://www.floraweb.de/ • Promote visits to local forest conservation projects. proxy/floraweb/MAP-pro/Standard_Version1_0.pdf) or organic, fair trade and sustainable agriculture standards • Collect donations for local forest conservation projects from (see Box 8 on page 33); and your guests. - are not endangered and/or listed under CITES. • Explain to your staff the hotel’s commitment in relation to the use of medicinal and aromatic plants in amenities and spa products. Help them to communicate with customers about these issues.

38 ensligtocseislbl:the labels: cosmetics two selling been has Cosmebio 2002, Since France. in widespread most the is label Cosmebio The out. carried was French labels different the of study a Finally, entail. might this that costs additional any limiting whilst advance, to products the allow to and suppliers their with partnerships form to order in recommendations with them provided charter A criteria. environmental introducing by ranges toiletries complimentary their brands develop the help to created was Accor, to specific ledger, model specifications A study. thorough a out carried group the toiletries, complimentary “eco-friendly” identify to decided group Accor the in hotels When environment. the for respect with quality high combine they if customers by received better be will products These guests. their offer hoteliers welcome the of part important an form etc.) shampoo, gel, shower (soap, rooms hotel in offered toiletries Complimentary oentrlcosmetics natural More n hyaentytrayt work to ready yet not are they and certification, this obtaining towards working are suppliers few a only present, At distribution. international for and quantities large in obtain to hard currently are labels Cosmebio with products that out turned it suppliers, the consulting After balance. ecological the and biodiversity respects that production of means a farming, organic for support their in lies labels these of importance The ingredients. organic percent 100 contain to products requires label, which Progrès & Nature the or oils essential for certification Agriculture AB the BDIH, from label cosmetics” natural “certified German the example for labels, used frequently less other are There ingredients. organic for requirements its with further even goes label BIO Cosmebio the However, ingredients. natural percent 95 of minimum a contain products the that certify labels these Both label. organic) and (eco-friendly BIO the and label (eco-friendly) ECO 39 www.accor.com Accor Manager Project Development Sustainable Mathieu Nathanaël available. become they as products Cosmebio-labelled with its brands accompany to able be to group hopes the term, longer the In them. with working also are Seasons, All as such brands, Several ecolabelled. entirely is which range, new their confirmed now have management, environmental to regards with brands leading group’s the Novotel, and Ibis biodegradable. highly are and ecosystems aquatic to damaging less are health, human to or environment the to harmful less are that substances contain products the that guarantees It supply. adequate ensuring thus used, widely more but Cosmebio, than strict less is which Ecolabel, the European chose company the end, the In brands. international group’s the with

Part II: Taking action in the hotel © Michel GUNTHER / WWF-Canon

With my suppliers Ornamental plants and animals • Choose products from reputable sources that are informed about conservation and sustainable use issues associated WHAT ARE THE LOCAL AND with production and sourcing of plant-based body-care GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY ISSUES? products, and which operate in accordance with Use of ornamental species of plants and animals, including any international sustainability standards. Appropriate standards exotic pets, such as iguanas, turtles, parrots or fish, can include the International Standard for Sustainable Wild damage biodiversity through over-collection or the impacts of Collection of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants invasive alien species on a natural ecosystem. (http://www.floraweb.de/proxy/floraweb/MAP- pro/Standard_Version1_0.pdf), or organic, fair trade and Collection of species from the wild sustainable agriculture standards (see Box 8 on page 33). Collecting species from the wild can deplete wild populations • Explain to your current suppliers that you want to purchase and threaten the survival of a species, either because the plant-based spa products and similar items that come from numbers of individuals collected are too high or because the sustainable sources, and ask them how you can work collection methods negatively impact sensitive habitats. For together to put this standard into practice. example, some fish collectors illegally use poison to immobilize • Support local communities and producers to build their own fish on reefs, enabling them to collect many more fish than by businesses for sustainable harvest and cultivation of plants other methods. This practice can severely deplete fish for production of plant-based body-care products, and once populations and introduce poisons into the ecosystem that these businesses are established, purchase their products. harm other species on the reef. Many wild plants are also threatened by unsustainable collection, including cycads With my clients collected for horticultural use and some populations of • Explain to your clients the importance of protecting pitcher-plants (Sarracenia spp.) that are collected for the cut medicinal and aromatic plants, and offer information about flower and horticultural trades. where they can purchase medicinal and aromatic plant products that are produced sustainably. Consider selling a Invasive alien ornamental species selection of these products in the hotel shop. Many popular ornamental plants and animals are highly invasive • Use the wall space in the spas to showcase local culture when introduced into new areas, and can threaten native species. and biodiversity through photographs and artefacts. For example, the koi carp, a colourful variety of common carp that is used as an ornamental fish in garden ponds, can out- compete native species. Guppies (Poecilia reticulata), which are a popular aquarium fish species, can escape and survive in

40 nprnrhpwt ulcatoiisadlclorganisations • local and authorities public with partnership In • • suppliers my With • • • Internally DO: I CAN WHAT on information more for plants. III horticultural Part in 12 Factsheet TRAFFIC See on information more for animals. III live Part in 10 Factsheet TRAFFIC See managed. effectively and pre-assessed adequately introduction not the is if biodiversity native in declines major introduced, causing accidentally or intentionally is it where ecosystems o upr ayisc pce.Tewtrhyacinth ( water The does species. and insect birds many for support habitat not poor provides it since invades it areas ( the tamarisk include plants ornamental invasive alien of Examples insects. food and fishes native of populations damage they where habitats, freshwater temperate and sub-tropical many ihonacrassipes Eichhornia oaia adn n ln usre ntedsg and design the in nurseries plant and gardens botanical universities, organisations, conservation local Engage 11). Box (see Council Aquarium Marine fish the reef by as certified such sources, certified Use sources. or collected cultivated sustainably from your come that purchases animals hotel and plants ornamental any that Ensure Programme, http://www.gisp.org/species/index.asp). Species Invasive more Global (for the species see native information, alternative give of and use species the invasive to as preference listed not are hotel used your animals in and plants ornamental that check landscaping contractors, and nurseries local with cooperation In globally species. or threatened regionally locally, of use the Avoid them. remove to how on botanists) and specialists fisheries managers, conservation specialists agronomists, appropriate (e.g. from around advice or obtain in and species hotel, invasive your existing the of audit an Get species. invasive of use the your limiting staff for your introducingprogramme to of explain risk and the species, run invasive that alien activities hotel of list a Create aai ramosissima Tamarix a infcnl le h oa clg in ecology local the alter significantly can ) ,wihrdcsboiest in biodiversity reduces which ), 41 • • • clients my With • • nomcinsaothwt ra nml rsn on present premises. animals your treat to how about clients Inform them. controlling of species ways invasive and that cause, problems the clients your to Explain plants. indigenous rationale for a choice as the species for invasive of issue including the used, on are information displays animal live ornamental if with and hotel plants the of decoration the in biodiversity concerns integrate you how on information Provide purposes. educational for them use flora that and or fauna species, native of conservation promote that and those species invasive eradicate to programmes Support to linked species. precautions threatened the and them, controlling and of cause ways species invasive that problems the organisations about public and community in awareness Raise signs. and explanatory areas, of public provision hotel’s the of plants with decoration o oeifrain e:www.aquariumcouncil.org see: information, more For corals. and wild-collected fish in ornamental trade global the of half more that supply which Philippines, Fiji, the as and such Indonesia countries in example, for expand, continues to fish ornamental of suppliers and MAC-certified collectors of number the and the trade, of aquarium support the has programme certification The and Standards. Social Environmental Setting for Practice Good ISEAL of the Code with comply standards to its reef and from aquarium, life marine ornamental of care collection and the in engaged those for certification and standards creating other by and ecosystems reefs marine coral conserve to is mission MAC's organisms. aquarium marine of sustainability and quality the for programme certification an international runs (MAC) Council Aquarium Marine The certification Council Aquarium Marine 11: Box

Part II: Taking action in the hotel IUCN Photo Library © Jim Thorsell

Taking action in hotel souvenir shops

WHAT ARE THE LOCAL AND Because of the threats to their survival, international trade in GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY ISSUES? some of the species used in souvenirs is regulated under CITES

Widespread collection from the wild of various plants and (see Box 7 on page 26). Their local uses may also be controlled animals for production of souvenirs can have serious negative by national regulations, in the country where a hotel is located impacts on biodiversity, and the survival of some species is and/or in the countries where many of your guests may come threatened by their use or overuse in souvenir products. For from. Guests who try to take home any of these banned or example, populations of red coral in the Mediterranean have regulated items risk large fines and confiscation of the items. By been severely damaged by intensive exploitation for production making guests aware of endangered species and products that of jewellery and ornaments that are sold locally. Hunting of they should avoid, and making sure that they are not sold in animals for their fur and other parts has severely impacted your hotel shop, you are protecting your guests and your hotel, populations of tigers (mainly hunted for their bones for use in as well as the endangered wildlife. It is also important to consider traditional medicine), leopards and jaguars, while trade in ivory the ethics of trading mineral and fossil souvenirs (see Box 12). or horns has harmed elephant and rhinoceros populations, and See TRAFFIC Factsheet 9 in Part III for more information on demand for shells threatens marine turtles and shellfish species medicinal and aromatic plants for amenities and spa products. such as the giant clam. Plant species damaged by over- See TRAFFIC Factsheet 11 in Part III for more information on harvesting in the wild for the souvenir trade include various wildlife-based souvenirs. orchids, cacti (including “rain sticks” made from stems of some cacti) and cycads, as well as some tropical hardwoods, such as mahogany.

42 • • suppliers my With • • Internally DO: I CAN WHAT nagrdo hetndspecies. threatened in or trade endangered banning or controlling legislation CITES national under and/or listed species derived and/or products species any endangered sell from or stock display, not that should understand they leaseholders or managers shop that Ensure species. banning threatened or in controlling trade regulations and lists CITES species the the on species, endangered in trade illegal issues concerning about leaseholders or managers shop Inform species. endangered protect local to and regulations CITES, species, endangered concerning in issues trade the illegal about communicate to staff your Train species threatened (http://www.cites.org). in trade banning national or and controlling lists legislation CITES to added species and for authorities associations local with annually) (e.g. check Regularly xrcini h is place. the first of the legality in the extraction indeed or sites such people at the working of conditions working material the the extracted, which was from site the of integrity and scientific sustainability the about inquiries genuine should make Hotels illegally. traded and collected resources being mineral and fossil their also about now concerned are countries of and number specimens, growing fossil a and mineral in trade of the ethics regarding views different and are stalactites There as stalagmites. such traded, be never should inappropriate and certainly are specimens of types Some biodiversity. geological for in than trade heritage the on ethics the work on less done been has there although hotels, within policy conservation responsible a when implementing consider to aspect hotel another in is specimens shops fossil and mineral of sale The souvenirs fossil and Mineral 12: Box 43 • • • clients my With • • organisations • local and authorities public with partnership In eae toys. biodiversity- related other or animals such produce environmental organisations local Often children. turtles, their (e.g. for threat etc.) under are that of species animals local toy charismatic buy to opportunity the guests Offer departure upon customs with arrival. trouble or in be not will guarantee they a that as buy there, can articles customers and that souvenirs saying “CITES-proof” shop your in sign a regulations. Have domestic about out find to to where able on be advise should and internationally, traded species on information provides authority management CITES National The http://www.cites.org/common/directy/e_directy.html). at found be authority can management details CITES (contact national useful the A is customers. contact the of of point origin of countries fines the the in on imposed information available from make derived and products species, and these species such for check are to authorities trained customs that fact the national Highlight and/or legislation. CITES under restrictions endangered trade in and trade species illegal about guests your to photo books) and posters DVDs, (videos, information Provide items. other in and parts souvenirs their of and production species threatened local of use control to programmes on (NGOs) non- organisations and governmental authorities local with partnership in them. Work protect to need the and species organisations threatened public about and community the in awareness Raise products. recycled including materials, from sustainable souvenirs develop to artists local Encourage

Part II: Taking action in the hotel A souvenir that supports biodiversity conservation

Manary Praia Hotel is a small, environment can be arranged through minimum monthly wage is about romantic hotel located in Natal, a city the front desk. US$259.00, this money could help a of 800,000 people. The hotel is on This initiative is promoted through the former poacher family sustain itself for Ponta Negra Beach, one of the most website of the hotel, which links to the nearly four years. But more than the important beach resort destinations Manatee Project website, and hotel money, the hotel manager believes in northeast Brazil, and surrounded staff are also aware of the initiative that the subtle message they pass to by two major protected areas of and its goals. their guests shows that it is always primary rainforest. possible to do something to help The advantage of this initiative is its conserve our planet’s biodiversity. In this area lives the most endangered simplicity, which involves simply marine mammal in Brazil: the ordering the toys, paying for them in Based on the example of the Manary manatee. During colonial times, this advance, and selling them to guests Praia, a major nationwide home store gentle giant was present along most with a small mark-up to pay for the (Tok & Stock) has begun to offer the of the northeastern Brazilian coast, costs of the operation (delivery, taxes, same toys at its facilities, hoping to but due to hunting and habitat loss, etc.). No profit is made from this bring in even more revenue for the only an estimated 500 individuals are initiative, aside from the benefits to Manatee Project. still living in the wild, in a much more the hotel’s image, which is considered Eduardo Bagnoli restricted range. To stop poor coastal a desirable side-effect. Since 2000, Owner communities from hunting manatees the hotel has sold close to 600 Manary Praia Hotel for food, the Manatee Project manatee toys, raising US$11,500. www.manary.com.br (www.projetopeixe-boi.com.br), a Considering that the Brazilian federal government project, has developed a number of initiatives. One of these initiatives involves the production of manatee stuffed toys and employs the daughters of former poachers. In 2000, Eduardo, the owner of the Manary Praia Hotel, came across the Manatee Research Center, where the manatee toys were sold. He then had the idea to offer the toys to guests of his hotel. When guests enter their rooms, they see these cute toys on their beds, with a small brochure explaining the history and purpose of the Manatee Project. A DVD and a book about the Manatee Project are also available to guests. Tours of the Manatee Research Center (Centro de Mamíferos Aquáticos do IBAMA) at Pernambuco State and the Manatee Project facilities where manatees are re-introduced to the natural © Eduardo Bagnoli, Director, Manary Praia Hotel

44 olcino rtce species protected of collection the as such communities, surrounding the in practices illegal any monitoring for responsible are teams resort The communities. local in fieldwork on based all above is policy this However, group. Senses Six the by managed and owned all are they because resort shops, the of each to apply which procedures, and policies group’s the of part form principles These etc. flowers, shells, coral, teeth, or fins shark reef ecosystem: coral the up make that species particular, in and, plants or animals endangered from derived no products are there that ensure to shops, resort in sold products monitoring involves activities its of One particular. in conservation marine and conservation, biodiversity regarding principles strong has group Senses Six The general. in tourism of development sustainable the in and conservation biodiversity in involved actively group, spa and resort luxury international an is Senses Six icuaigilglsouvenirs illegal Discouraging © Anke Hofmeister rdtoa ehius uha the as such techniques, traditional adapt to community the of members encourages also It support. with them provides and articles interesting make can who artisans for looks group the hand, one the On populations. these for income of a source constitute will and the spas in and tourists resorts to sold be later can that objects of production the encourage establishments Senses Six The issues. environmental of awareness their raise and them train also and souvenirs, “ethical” more of production the through income of source alternative an them offer can they particular, In poverty. reduce to order in communities surrounding the in populations underprivileged most the with foremost and first work They sought. are solutions and basis case-by-case a on studied are them behind reasons detected, the are practices these of any tourists. If to sale for etc.) shells, (turtles,

© Soneva Fushi by Six Senses 45 www.sixsenses.com Spas & Resorts Senses Six Innovation & Engineering Maintenance, Property of Director Group Seidel E. Juergen community. the in identified are who collaborators of external financing the by or teams, resort by internally either out carried are which actions, awareness-raising and training offers also It tastes. tourists’ the suit to souvenirs manufacturing for ideas offers and products artisans’ the buying to commits group Senses the Six support, this provide to order In shells. coconut from made toys as such materials, recycled from made souvenirs of creation the encourage also hotels the Finally, brochures. hotel’s the for gift-wrap and make to used is example, for paper, rice The requirements. today’s to paper, rice of production local

Part II: Taking action in the hotel Taking action in hotel grounds and gardens

WHAT ARE THE LOCAL AND provide suitable nesting places for birds and nesting boxes GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY ISSUES? and/or grow plants attractive to butterflies. Where possible, set aside land as natural areas or reserves; even small areas Maintaining a hotel’s gardens and grounds can have negative can be valuable for wildlife. impacts on biodiversity through pollution from pesticides and fertilizers and excessive water consumption for watering and • Work with local wildlife experts to ensure that hotel lighting irrigation. In addition, some species used in gardens are highly does not adversely affect wildlife, particularly if your hotel is invasive and can cause substantial damage to populations of situated near sensitive wildlife sites, such as turtle nesting native species and disrupt natural ecosystem processes, while beaches. Use lighting equipment that minimises the upward the use of locally, regionally or globally threatened species can spread of light near to and above the horizontal (e.g. by using put additional stress on species populations. Light and noise cowlings that direct light downwards). Locate lights to reduce from hotel facilities can disturb wildlife, making it more difficult stray light and glare to a minimum; away from buildings, for some species to feed and reproduce effectively. For luminance should not exceed five candela per square metre example, the reproductive success of marine turtles is greatly (Cd/m2). For some species, there are specific requirements – diminished when there are bright lights near to their nesting e.g. for turtles, no bright lights should be visible from beaches, as new hatchlings may become confused and head beaches during the breeding and hatching period. toward the buildings instead of the sea. Conversion of natural • Use sound insulation and reduce noise at source, to limit habitats to recreational uses, including gardens and sports disturbance to wildlife. grounds, can also lead to fragmentation of local ecosystems and reduce the overall space available for wildlife. In partnership with public authorities and local organisations • Consult with local conservation organisations, universities or See TRAFFIC Factsheet 12 in Part III for more information on botanical gardens in the design of a biodiversity-friendly the use of horticultural plants. garden or hotel grounds.

WHAT CAN I DO: • Develop explanatory signs on the various species, in partnership with local conservation organisations. Internally and/or with my suppliers • Plant local indigenous species and/or drought-resistant • Engage local teachers, conservation organisations, universities species wherever possible in landscaped and garden areas. or botanical gardens in developing nature trails and biodiversity Even small gardens in city hotels can incorporate such edu-tainment (education + entertainment) activities for species. Purchase these plants from local greenhouses. children and their families, e.g. a game to explore and discover different aspects of biodiversity in and around the hotel. • If you plan to have exotic animals on your grounds, ensure that you have all the relevant national permits that may be • Encourage use of local indigenous species and required for purchasing and keeping them, and that they are incorporation of wildlife areas in gardens and public areas. obtained from sustainable sources. • Support programmes to eradicate alien invasive species. • Check that plants used in your hotel’s grounds and gardens • Support the development of local biodiversity businesses, are not listed as invasive species (for more information, see such as indigenous tree nurseries, and incorporate the the Global Invasive Species Programme, products of these businesses in your supply chain. http://www.gisp.org/species/index.asp). With my clients • Plant local, native tree and bush species to create shaded • Communicate with guests about how you have integrated areas and new habitats. You can also green your roofs and biodiversity concerns in the design and management of the walls, which will also have a positive energy savings effect. grounds by: • Encourage wildlife in your hotel grounds. For example, - placing signs on trees and in flower beds with the names consider creating a wildlife garden, or in small urban spaces of the indigenous species;

46 nldn a ftegre,wt h aiu species various the with garden, the of map a including - interpretative with guests for trails nature up setting - eid ae nplt ttrehotels, three at pilots on based two-year period, a over written was guide The people. and wildlife for attractive more it make to landscape the transforming and seasons the to suited products and techniques natural using area, the of management responsible ensure then They conditions. local the to adapted species plant choose land and their with do to what rethinking start by to have hotels the principles: on two based is that land their for managing guide a offered are hotels The programme. environmental chain’s hotel the for a showcase into them turn to areas these improving and restoring of idea the to rise gave fact This surroundings. unattractive these in escape natural a provide can establishments these plots, large their to thanks However, diminishing. is zones, industrial and commercial into turned now been have that areas in located hotels, these of appeal original the Today, inexpensive. built very were were hotels the time the at which plots, large on constructed generally were establishments these Indeed, travellers. business of the demands meet to roads, major on of towns, edge the on built were hotels Novotel French many Historically, atesisfrntrlgardens natural for Partnerships h a hudas eaalbeo h alnx othe to next wall the on available be rooms. also their should in map guests The to available is the that in directory watching, hotel wildlife and bird for opportunities and and trail; biodiversity the about on information of types other and leaflets t xets o hsnwgenspace management. green new this for expertise provided its also Lyon of city The (LPO). association, protection bird French the with partnership in was out species carried local to it adapt to land the of restoration the hotels, pilot all these In signs. and boxes nest produced have workshops whose officers, intervention youth police and people; disabled by out carried work the promoting and spaces green the after looking company the botanist; a and worker nursery plant a partners: local many mobilised has operation This achievements. company’s the and project the explain entrance, hotel the in installed boards, Information birds. and butterflies attract that hedges up make berries or flowers with shrubs and plants, climbing with trellises are there entrance, the along borders flower the In plants. of scented full garden a imagining by and mowing lawn rethinking by meadow, flower natural a creating by gardens its transformed hotel the attractive, more them make and green spaces of m² 7,000 its develop order to In project. national this in pilot hotels the of one was Limoges Novotel management. national group’s the with collaboration in and 47 • otiuet hi conservation. their can to they contribute how and guests resources inform biodiversity to local beach about hotel the on boards sign Design ae sdo ry osrecfe,taadsak in snacks and tea garden. coffee, the serve the to on trays printed on be used also paper could and garden, the to door www.accor.com France Novotel of Manager Marketing Operational Lecret Yves & Lac le Limoges Novotel of Manager Cunin Daniel easily. more out carried be to this as such projects allow to expertise and means the have them between who stakeholders, of variety a wide by shared subject this in interest the demonstrates experience This © Daniel Cunin

Part II: Taking action in the hotel Rainforest Alliance © Chris Wille 48 • suppliers my With • • • • Internally DO: I CAN WHAT destination. your and of quality competitiveness the maintaining to contributing thus gates, hotel’s your outside protection and activities on conservation influence biodiversity hotel’s profile your increase the and raise issues to these possible of is it partners, other with working By area. the for priority a biodiversity use make sustainable to and conservation fail may and destination, of importance a the in biodiversity of aware fully be not may andcommunities authorities public addition, In under-staffed. and under- resourced are organisations these cases many in a destination, in biodiversity of use sustainable the and driving conservation organisations qualified highly many are there While environment. their of quality and health overall the influence that services all ecosystem for provides places, biodiversity destinations, some in tourists for attraction major is the biodiversity While destinations. in tourism and of viability attractiveness the maintaining for vital is biodiversity Protecting ISSUES? BIODIVERSITY GLOBAL AND LOCAL THE ARE WHAT efforts conservation biodiversity local Supporting destination the in action Taking h atesyu oe swrigwt n hi biodiversity their and activities. with protection working is hotel your partners about the information providing by engagement their Promote nature for conservation. support and interest resources community other leverage and to time staff of contribution your Use beaches. local as up such clean habitats, to campaigns in participate and Organise activities. protection biodiversity working their is and hotel with your partners the and about biodiversity and local ecosystems, on information with staff your Provide the with needs. talents destination’s and skills staff’s the environmental matching support associations, to staff your with activities Organise 49 • nprnrhpwt ulcatoiisadlclorganisations • local and authorities public with partnership In • rvd ietfnnilspoto ugs possible suggest or support financial direct Provide - management skills, business on sessions training Offer - and marketing on advice technical informal with Assist - local of meetings for catering and rooms Provide - these visit to guests your for opportunities Create - guests visit: your to sites like at tourism and biodiversity authorities improve public that and organisations of projects the Support norg h eeomn n mlmnainof implementation and development the encourage - whose businesses local support to them encourage - manage adequately and designate to them encourage - of value and importance the of awareness their raise - to: local authorities and organisations management destination with Work this put to together practice. work into can goal you how them ask and use, sustainable and up conservation set biodiversity to for want partnerships you that suppliers your to Explain udn ore,icuiglclboiest management biodiversity local including sources, funding hospitality. tourism and of understanding and systems, accounting and activities. conservation their to for tours revenue up generate set them help to development product activities. fundraising other and hotel, lotteries the for in etc.) stay weekend (dinner, prizes initiatives, in-kind conservation and/or local of success the celebrate functions to for catering and space initiatives, conservation destination. and your planning in to development pertaining those to and projects their to relevant procedures decision-making government. in or Participate sector private the key in with makers contact decision make to them helping by projects aua adcpsi ordestination. your and in biodiversity landscapes of natural conservation the to contribute hoteliers will for that conduct of codes and practices voluntary and biodiversity; value services and products 13); Box (see conservation biodiversity for areas businesses; and communities its destination, the for biodiversity protecting

Part II: Taking action in the hotel and conservation projects and environmental education deserts can have serious adverse impacts on the fragile and programmes in local schools and communities. sensitive desert ecosystem.

With my clients See TRAFFIC Factsheet 13 in Part III for more information on • Provide information about the partnerships your hotel activities and excursions. supports, and about the partners that you are working with (posters, brochures, web pages). WHAT CAN I DO: • Offer the option to your guests to visit projects your Internally hotel is supporting. • Ensure that any activities that are provided by your hotel are well-managed in terms of protection of biodiversity, comply • Provide opportunities for guests who wish to make with relevant local, national and international standards (e.g. donations to projects, for example by including an optional marine recreation standards or local regulations on diving on donation to local biodiversity conservation activities as part coral reefs or around other sensitive sites), and are of their bills. conducted by fully trained staff who are able to monitor the • Offer volunteer opportunities to guests who wish to impacts of tourist activities. When in doubt about the participate in activities linked to projects with your partners standards, consult local conservation authorities and NGOs. or those that your hotel supports. • Appoint and train Biodiversity Information Focal Points among your staff to provide first-hand information to your clients (especially if you are adjacent to a natural area). Activities and excursions • Offer your guests up-to-date information on opportunities for wildlife watching and visits to conservation projects, offered at the tour desk protected areas, nature reserves, or areas of high biodiversity value (see Box 14). WHAT ARE THE LOCAL AND • Ask staff for their ideas on improving existing activities, or GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY ISSUES? possible new activities that you could offer.

Biodiversity is a vital asset for tourism destinations, as high- With my suppliers quality natural surroundings are an important element for many • Work with local tour agencies and operators to offer tours recreational activities. Well-managed tours to watch wildlife or and activities that are well-managed in terms of protection visit conservation projects in areas of high biodiversity value of biodiversity, comply with relevant local, national and (see Box 14) are a great attraction for your guests and one of international standards, and are conducted by fully the fastest growing parts of the tourism sector. Tours can also trained staff. provide a valuable source of income that helps to protect wildlife. • Encourage small enterprises to increase their benefit from But if sites for tourism activities are overcrowded and damaged, tourism and sustainable use of biodiversity, by building local the quality of the tourism experience is reduced. Often in businesses to develop sustainable production/harvesting of sensitive ecosystems, such as coral reefs, wetlands or biological resources that you use in your hotel and/or provide mountain areas above the tree-line, visits by tourists can tours for your guests (e.g. bird watching, nature treks). damage wildlife and biodiversity, if not properly managed. Even modest numbers of tourists can cause disturbance to wildlife In partnership with public authorities and local organisations and damage vegetation by trampling and erosion of paths. For • Support tours developed and managed by community example, heavily used dive sites on coral reefs have fewer fish organisations and local enterprises (e.g. bird watching, and more signs of damage compared to other parts of reefs, nature treks). heavily used paths and ski areas in mountains show signs of • Use qualified guides from local communities, and help biodiversity damage, and poorly managed tourist activities in

50 • clients my With • •

htcnb asdb iig nreln n other and activities. snorkelling recreational diving, by caused biodiversity be other can and that birdlife reefs, natural coral to as damage such the resources, about and value, their and natural resources local about information with guests Provide a of sites. use of and variety activities of diversity by greater example a for encouraging sites, of overuse and overcrowding to avoid activities nature-based offering organisations with Work destination. the in and providers hotels service all other by disseminated are tourism watching nature-based wildlife and for regulations that ensure to local authorities and organisations management destination with Work groups. tourist with may working they for equipment need and/or training any with them provide IUCN Photo Library © Jim Thorsell 51 • • • • orcinsbte nesadtevleo idvriyat level. biodiversity local of the value the understand better clients your Develop areas. sensitive in guides be by guests accompanied that require and biodiversity, guests local help appreciate to available are guides trained Ensure http://www.coral.org). (see dives experience guests’ the your enhance of to cards scuba waterproof watching, offer turtle and and snorkelling trekking, as such recreational activities in practices best illustrating diving. cards or Produce snorkelling watching, whale codes for as conduct such of wildlife, and environments adverse natural their on minimise impacts to guests allow can that behaviour sustainable environmentally on information Provide in activities way. these responsible practice a to how for guidelines provide and activities, recreational of providers responsible Recommend dhoc ad nepeainporme htwl help will that programmes interpretation

Part II: Taking action in the hotel Box 13: Sustainable tourism guidelines and can be used as a checklist (the Convention’s website “Biodiversity and Tourism Network” allows you The links between tourism and biodiversity have been to check your performance along the 35 main action recognized by the Convention on Biological Diversity items using a survey – see since 2004. The CBD Guidelines on Biodiversity and http://tourism.cbd.int/survey.shtml ) or as a reference, Tourism Development particularly in dealing with legal, institutional and (http://www.cbd.int/tourism/guidelines.shtml) community relations. As the guidelines are more general summarize the requirements for a biodiversity-friendly in scope, the CBD has developed a User’s Manual that tourism operation, from planning to management, and explains how the principles can be applied to tourism from impact assessment to community relations and and facility development (http://tourism.cbd.int/). reporting. The guidelines consist of 12 steps for the adequate planning of tourism facilities and products,

Birds, the new guests at Etap Hotels

The low-cost hotel chain Etap Hotel in this partnership becomes a Etap Hotel decided to support six of and the French bird protection corporate benefactor member of the LPO’s bird rescue centres by donating association Ligue pour la Protection local LPO group. In return, the hotel 0.30 euro from each breakfast ordered des Oiseaux (LPO), have formed a benefits from a series of services at their hotels for two weeks. This partnership with a common goal: to aimed at educating their clients, staff action provided the opportunity for raise awareness about nature and children, including awareness- hotel collaborators and their families conservation. raising documents to display in hotel to visit the rescue centres, learn about LPO is a French association whose rooms and communal areas, a their missions, and participate in the main missions are the restoration and subscription to l’Oiseau magazine and releasing of birds that had been treated conservation of the natural heritage, Rapaces de France, two of the and were ready to return to the wild. and environmental education and association’s publications, educational Jean Hentz awareness-raising, in particular games for children, and guides for Sustainable Development through activities aimed at discovering locally organised nature trips. Coordinator nature. They saw Etap Hotel, with its Moreover, each hotel is free to carry Etap Hotel-Formule 1 280 hotels, 2,500 collaborators and 8 out other individual actions with its www.accor.com million customers per year in France, local LPO branch. For example, as a powerful lever with which to birdwatching trips during peak reach a larger number of people. Etap migration periods are organised in the Hotel, meanwhile, sought to meet the Bay of the Somme, and in some expectations of customers who are hotels in urban areas the installation of becoming increasingly aware of and nest boxes has favoured the return of interested in the discovery of their the common swift. Finally, the creation natural heritage. of a “nature area” in the hotel with bird In 2006, a partnership agreement was songs playing as background music signed, and by 2007, more than 50 and posters of fauna and flora percent of the hotel network had enhance the atmosphere of the joined forces with LPO. A target of 70 establishment, whilst at the same time percent participation was set for 2008. performing a civic-minded function.

More specifically, each hotel involved In 2007, increasing their involvement, © Pierre-Emmanuel Rastoin

52 pce ihesdvriyadtraee aias The habitats. threatened and richness/diversity species, species threatened criteria: three on based guidelines regional and international are to IPAs according sites. selected these of survival to long-term designed the world, ensure the around habitats plants, their wild and for fungi sites of semi-natural network or a natural form best They the IBAs. of equivalent plant the are Areas: Plant Important http://www.audubon.org/bird/iba/index.html http://www.birdlife.org/action/science/sites/index.html established. are IBAs where countries in organisations conservation and national International BirdLife by run IBA is The programme France. in Camargue in the Park and National Nepal, Chitwan Royal Philippines, The in Tubbataha Reef are examples worldwide: IBAs 10,000 are about there Currently distributions. bird restricted of with number species significant a support which or seabirds, or shorebirds birds, migratory of or concentrations numbers large house or internationally species, an threatened of population a sustain that example habitats for birds, of the populations for of habitat conservation important globally has that area an Areas: Bird Important http://www.unep-wcmc.org/wdpa/ http://www.unep-wcmc.org/protected_areas/ ce/wcpa_categories/index.cfm http://cms.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/wcpa/wcpa_work/wcpa_strategic/wcpa_scien conservation. areas biodiversity protected for aside set may companies or communities, individuals local some addition, national In 100,000 areas. over protected of list global a maintains (WCMC) Centre Monitoring Conservation World these UNEP’s conserve sites. to vital is management visitor effective therefore ecotourism; mainly tourism, for and allow recreation areas protected all (Areas Protection), I Strict Category of of exception the with and, six categories in objectives management their to according classified are areas Protected other means’. or effective legal through managed and resources, associated cultural and natural of and diversity, of biological maintenance and protection especially the sea to and/or dedicated land of area ‘an as (1994) areas: Protected value biodiversity high of Areas 14: Box rtce rai eie yIUCN by defined is area protected A nIpratBr ra(B)is (IBA) Area Bird Important An motn ln ra (IPAs) Areas Plant Important 53 fia aeon ooc n at fteHimalayas. the of parts and Morocco Cameroon, Southern Africa, region, ASEAN the in Zealand, established New being Lebanon, are IPAs further and Europe, IPAs across 1,000 about are Plant there for Currently Strategy Conservation. Global in the IUCN of with 5 Target partner coordinating lead a also is Plantlife which by International, coordinated is Europe in programme IPA ihicesdpoeto n management. and protection habitats increased and with plants animals, vulnerable and which rare Conservation, provide of Areas Special and wintering migration; feeding, or breeding, for them birds use vulnerable they and because rare for important are Protection which Special Areas, areas: of types two Union comprise European and the by adopted set legislation are under sites up 2000 Natura The Europe. and across habitats species threatened seriously most the protect that sites: 2000 Natura http://www.plantlife.org.uk/international/plantlife-ipas-about.htm http://whc.unesco.org/en/ Australia. in Reef Barrier the Great and Ecuador, of Islands Galapagos the in Tanzania, Park National Serengeti the Natural include countries. examples 141 in Sites 25 Heritage and World natural mixed 166 cultural, 660 were of there As 2007, heritage. natural and world’s cultural the universal of outstanding part forming as country relevant the and Organisation) Cultural and Scientific Educational, Nations United (The UNESCO by designated Sites: Heritage World http://www.ramsar.org/index_list.htm tourists. for Hungary destinations in popular Balaton are Lake and Africa, South Wetlands in Lucia System St. Bolivia/Peru, in Titicaca the Lake in U.S., Everglades the like Wetlands 159 hectares. totalling million sites, wetland Ramsar 1,718 Currently are 1971. there in Iran, Ramsar, in signed Wetlands, on Convention International in the conservation with for accordance designated been have that sites are sites): (Ramsar Importance International of Wetlands http://europa.eu/scadplus/leg/en/lvb/l28076.htm http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/db_gis/index_en.htm http://www.natura.org/ elnso nentoa Importance International of Wetlands aua20 santoko sites of network a is 2000 Natura ahWrdHrtg ieis Site Heritage World Each

Part II: Taking action in the hotel Six Senses commits to protecting sharks

Six Senses is an international luxury populations in our oceans, where the activities, customers, partner agencies resort and spa group. Some of their disappearance of this large predator and tour operators are given model establishments are located in the would endanger the balance of the letters to send to the local authorities Maldives, where the conservation entire marine ecosystem. The project’s and government about this serious and quality of the marine environment main objective is to achieve a total problem, demanding that they ban are essential for the future of ban on shark fishing in the Atoll and in recreational shark hunting. Customers local populations and the tourist the Maldives. and tourism promoters can thus send industry alike. Six Senses and its partners ban a strong message from the resorts to In partnership with other resorts in tourist activities such as big game the political decision-makers in the the region, Six Senses began the fishing and hunting in their resorts, Atoll and the Maldives. “Baa Atoll” project in mid-2007, in report operators who offer tourists Juergen E. Seidel order to find ways of improving these activities and support decision- Group Director of Property environmental protection and the makers to create and implement Maintenance, Engineering & well-being of local communities. relevant legislation. Innovation Six Senses Resorts & Spas The project addresses many issues, In order to raise customer awareness www.sixsenses.com including the protection of manta rays, and support the group’s advocacy night fishing, the minimum size of fish authorised for harvesting, and damage to the seabed caused by anchors. The project also discourages activities that are liable to disturb species in their natural habitat, such as turtle or dolphin watching tours in the breeding areas and during breeding periods. Even for educational purposes, these activities can endanger the animals and put their survival at risk. Within all these activities, priority is given to the protection of sharks, whose populations worldwide have declined dramatically over the last few years. Intensive hunting is dramatically reducing shark © Six Senses

54 ciiis n r epnil for responsible are and activities, protection environmental in participate and information gather They chosen. are hotel per employees two each meeting, At staff. hotel for days raising awareness- and action joint organise regularly Region the Centre-Val-de-Loire in hotels Ibis 21 the Likewise, 2007. in Mankind and Nature for Hulot Nicolas Fondation the with agreement partnership a signed France Ibis this, Following 2004. in certification management environmental 14001 ISO obtained hotels Ibis policy, development sustainable Accor’s of part As building The hotel’. ‘bat a shelter, bat wooden a build to undertook hotel Each animals. these help try to to chose thus staff Austria’s Accor habitat. natural their on encroaches which sprawl, urban by is threatened future their but Austria, in bat of species 25 are There mosquitoes. eat example, for that, animals useful very actually are they misunderstood, and maligned often are bats Although biologist. a with collaboration in project conservation bat a on working been has Austria Accor 2007, Since h ec,apaefrriigsafawareness staff raising for place a beach, The hotels bat its and Austria Accor hts©PtrPeer Peter © Photos r ncesbeb a,tersl of result the car, by inaccessible are dunes the Although species. several animal for site breeding a is beach the reserve, nature a on Situated hotels. different the by for paid are which expenses, travelling participants’ the of excluding euros, budget 3,000 a requires event of kind This group. protection environmental a local with collaboration in 2006, the in in Vendée beach a up clean was to event organised local a 2005, in the River of Loire banks the of clean-up a After return. their on hotel their in staff of the rest the to information on passing opportunity an thus was It welcome. also were children where a picnic, around centred day fun This forests. local in caves exploring of discovery day a in participate to invited were hotel) per members staff or seven six (around volunteers staff 2008, In bats. by inhabited already were shelters these of several that reported biologist the project’s later, months few A bats. by these visited areas in trees, in the boxes erect to town of on outskirts forest the a into off went then teams 55 www.accor.com Maillard Vallée Blois Ibis Hotel Manager Guerre-Genton Laurent machine. washing a even and bottles glass bags, plastic cigarettes, rubbish: of tonnes two collected had participants 40 day, the the of end the the At of environment. fragility the and taken be should that precautions the question, in the area on talk 30-minute a with event the opened association The real problem. a is areas protected of pollution the that showed clean-up day’s the www.accor.com Austria Accor Manager Development Sustainable and City Wien Mercure of GM Dissauer Elisabeth press. local the in published were project the of details customers, hotel of independent project, internal an was it Although Hospitality. Accor by financed was operation inexpensive This 2007. in erected were that “bat hotels” the clean to also and natural habitat bats’ the about more learn to

Part II: Taking action in the hotel Accor commits to the ‘Plant for the Planet’ programme © SOS Sahel

In April 2008, Accor confirmed its programme and presenting new SOS Sahel in the area of Niayes: the sustainable development commitment practices for dealing with bath towels. project is to plant small trees on dunes by committing to the ‘Plant for the A campaign to build awareness to prevent them from drifting over Planet: Billion Tree Campaign’. The among customers is also planned. nearby cultivated lands with the wind. initiative, which was launched by the Customers are encouraged to take Overall, 300.000 trees are to be United Nations Environment part in the programme through a new planted within 3 years, hence preserving Programme under the sponsorship of message posted in their bathrooms: a strategic farm area of Senegal. Prince Albert II of Monaco and “Here, YOUR towels plant trees.” Hélène Roques Wangari Maathai, winner of the 2004 Director, Sustainable Development Following a pilot phase that has Nobel Peace Prize, planted more than Accor involved all brands on all continents, 1.6 billion trees in 2007. www.accor.com this project will finance the planting of Accor aims to engage both hotel three million trees by the end of 2012. operators and customers in this Accor hotels in 100 countries will take innovative global reforestation project. part in projects in seven of the world’s Through the project, the hotels pledge forest regions, working closely with to finance tree planting projects with seven associations chosen for their the money that they save on laundry ability to manage planting costs when guests keep their bath programmes that are particularly towels for more than one night. relevant for environmental protection To support the project, Accor is and biodiversity preservation, while offering special training for floor staff. also developing local business With the assistance of a large number opportunities. of housekeepers from different hotels These projects include planting across all the brands, an educational programmes in key regions such as film was made to present the Brazil, Indonesia or Senegal. As for importance of reforestation for local the latter, Accor is teaming up with communities, while also explaining the

56 57

IUCN Photo Library © Jim Thorsell Part II: Taking action in the hotel © Ronald PETOCZ / WWF-Canon n nentoa euain n eomnain nthe on recommendations local and check regulations to international may advised and it are 2008, Hoteliers in then. press since to changed going have of time the at was correct factsheets believed these in presented information the While product, a it. of buy legality not the do about simply doubt in are in you trade If detrimental wildlife. or illegal and, to buying contributing before avoid carefully therefore, think to buyers help these will in factsheets information The and products. supply wildlife the of on demand negative, and positive a both have influence, can major buyers Hotel ones. legal become from and indistinguishable market the into filter wild can protected populations from products sourced don’t illegally often Thus, systems exist. tracking reliable exists, species many in impact conservation significant a pets— have or can ornaments clothing, timber, medicine, tonics, food, The (CITES). Flora and of Fauna Species Wild Endangered in the Trade of International Secretariat on the Convention with co-operation close in TRAFFIC works IUCN. also and WWF organisations, of partner members network’s of the composed committee steering a by governed is TRAFFIC network, global, action-oriented A and habitats. research-driven their and species the wild to of commitments conservation motivate to helps and and economies local a national supports makes needs, it human that to manner contribution a significant such in and is systems integrity animals ecological the and of damaging plants without wild levels in sustainable trade at which managed in TRAFFIC's world nature. a of of conservation is the and vision to plants threat wild a in not trade is that animals ensure to working of mission with a 1976, in established was (http://www.traffic.org) TRAFFIC resources. biological on based services and choices products responsible of and sustainable making to in network, hoteliers monitoring guide trade wildlife the TRAFFIC, by project following The s fbooia resources biological of use sustainable the on Factsheets – Recommends TRAFFIC III: Part ucaeo idaia n ln products plant and animal wild of purchase 3fcset eedvlpda ato this of part as developed were factsheets 13 hl ea trade legal While . wehrfor —whether 59 ltigadornaments: and Clothing • materials: Building • Fodder: • Fuel: • Food: • including: reasons, many for traded is Wildlife traded? wildlife is Why in wildlife of volume large internationally. a trade is there probably but is borders, trade national wildlife within Most products. food other and timber, fish curios, humans— tourist by ingredients, prized medicinal or skins, needed including products of plants range and diverse animals a live plant or involve and can animal This wild people. of by exchange resources or sale any is trade Wildlife trade? wildlife the is What about out find to where regulations. on domestic advise to able be should internationally, and traded species on information provides authority management CITES National The directy/e_directy.html). http://www.cites.org/common/ at found be can details rdcsdsusdhr,a prpit.Aueu on of the point is useful contact A appropriate. as here, discussed products uha usadresins. and gums as processes, such manufacturing in ingredients to housing and Africa. and Asia of regions arid in product forest areas. rural in especially heating, and cooking poverty. and in populations Africa, human Southern increased and to Eastern response in growing is meat reliance wild than that more on demonstrated in study diets TRAFFIC rural A in countries. protein 60 animal the of at fifth contribute a fish) least (including animals Wild areas. rural in many livelihoods sustaining for resources important particularly re n lnsaea motn oreo ulfor fuel of source important an are plants and Trees ris uhom,nt,lae n uesare tubers and leaves nuts, mushrooms, Fruits, odri osdrdavr motn non-wood important very a considered is Fodder ainlCTSmngmn authority management CITES national hs ag rmtme o furniture for timber from range These hs nld ete,fr,feathers. furs, leather, include These (contact

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends A note about fisheries and certification schemes (www.panda.org/about_wwf/what_we_do/marine/ our_solutions/sustainable_fishing/sustainable_seafood/s Factsheets 1-6 in this section discuss various fish and eafood_guides/index.cfm) These include a guide by seafood products. For each type of product, TRAFFIC WWF Hong Kong which aims to provide credible recommends which species to choose and which to be information on the environmental impact of consuming wary of when making purchasing decisions. Much of seafood commonly available in Hong Kong and South this information is biased towards Europe and the North China, a region which is otherwise poorly covered by Atlantic simply because information from these regions seafood guides. is more readily available. Hotels and buyers elsewhere should try and find out as much as possible about the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) sources and methods of harvesting or farming products The MCS Sustainable Seafood Guide (www.fishonline.org) that are available, and then use the general guidance in allows users to search by the name of the fish they are the seafood factsheets to make their choices. interested in. Each fish is given a rating based on its Whilst every effort has been made to give clear and stock status, fisheries management and the practical advice, the choice of which species to buy or environmental impacts of the fishing methods used. not is often a complex one. Some species may be There are also lists of species to avoid and species to subject to local protection, or may have particular eat. Each species is given a rating from 1 to 5: seasons when they can be harvested—this applies particularly to some shellfish species. Hoteliers should • Rating 1 is awarded to the most sustainably therefore try to find out from their suppliers, or other produced seafood; sources, if and when such restrictions apply. Equally • Ratings 2, 3 and 4 indicate increasing cause for important is to ensure that suppliers are reputable and concern; and can vouch for the source and identity of their wares. By • Rating 5 is given to fish to be avoided. asking relevant questions and challenging suppliers Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) over the origin of their goods, buyers can have a significant influence over how such products are The MSC (www.msc.org) is an independent, global, ultimately sourced. non-profit organisation that awards certification to For many species, the factsheets also include sustainable and well-managed fisheries that meet their references to different certifications or rankings from rigorous environmental standard. several fisheries rating systems. These schemes, and Monterrey Bay Aquarium (MBA) their ranking systems, are presented here, to help you MBA’s Seafood Watch (www.mbayaq.org/cr/ better understand what each label means. seafoodwatch.asp) allows users to search by the name WWF of a fish to determine its sustainability. The initiative also WWF, TRAFFIC’s joint programme partner (alongside publishes regional seafood guides that rank species IUCN) helps promote sustainable fishing and seafood according to three levels: supplies. Using methodology developed together with • Best choices; the Seafood Choices Alliance • Good alternatives; and (www.seafoodchoices.com/), WWF has created • Avoid. information guides on which fish species to buy, which buyers are encouraged to consult:

60 oewy vni ti uta n osmr fwllf products. wildlife of consumers end in as trade just is wildlife it in if involved even way, are some us of most fact, retail In and businesses. export the and marketing production, industrial including trade, manufacturing, transport, handling, wildlife storage, the in involved specialists in involved be may middlemen number of any users, ultimate the and wildlife of collectors Between and companies. fisheries logging marine as such business, profit-oriented to major generation income local small-scale is from traders economic, wildlife for factor motivating primary The Collections: • Religion: • Healthcare: • Sport: • olce ymsusadpiaeindividuals. private and museums by collected purposes. religious for primary care. for health medicines traditional on relies the population of world’s percent 80 estimated An pharmaceuticals. for industrial ingredients to medicines traditional and remedies otoh hunting. trophy to idiei olce o prsrnigfo falconry from ranging sports for collected is Wildlife ayaiasadpat rdrvtvsaeused are derivatives or plants and animals Many idiepoie vrtigfo herbal from everything provides Wildlife aywllf pcmn n uisare curios and specimens wildlife Many 61 etls 0,0 rcdla kn,16mlinlzr kn,1.1 skins, lizard million live 1.6 640,000 skins, birds, crocodilian live 300,000 million reptiles, 1.5 than an more recorded of CITES average 1999, annual to 1995 From CITES. is by concern monitored conservation of species in trade International tonnes. 440,000 than more aromatic to and amounted medicinal plants in trade international global 1996, billion. In US$1.9 worth Asia, and timber America tropical South of Africa, metres from cubic EU million the 10 alone, than 2004 more In trade. imported pet the along for EU, snakes live the 300,000 into with imported were all CITES, skins, under snake listed million species 3.4 and skins crocodile million skins, 2.9 lizard million 3.4 2000–2005, from that estimates TRAFFIC wood 1999. of in metres globally cubic exported billion were a products than more were and fish 1998, of in tonnes traded million 100 than more Agriculture (FAO), and Organisation Food Nations value. United and the volume to both According of terms in of trade, categories wildlife important international most the are seafood and species. Timber of thousands of tens from individual animals of and millions plants of hundreds involves trade wildlife The Scale

© Martin HARVEY / WWF-Canon Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends million snake skins, 150,000 furs, almost 300 tonnes of caviar, threatening this resource, and those most affected tend to more than 1 million coral pieces and 21,000 hunting trophies. be the poorest people, in developing nations. • Illegal wildlife trade causes additional problems. The species Value traded are often already highly threatened and in danger of There is a huge trade in wildlife goods world-wide, with China extinction, conditions under which wildlife is transported are the largest market and significant markets in the United States often appalling, operators are unscrupulous and do not care and the European Union. Trade is international and domestic, how they damage the environment (for example they use with large volumes of the latter particularly within developing cyanide to kill fish, or log in protected areas), and illegal nations. The European Union (EU) tops the list for major trade undermines nations’ efforts to manage their natural importer by value for many wild animal and plant products, resources sustainably and causes massive economic losses including tropical timber, caviar, reptile skins and live reptiles. in lost earnings. The legal trade of wildlife products into the EU alone was worth • The introduction of invasive species that prey upon or out- an estimated €93 billion in 2005. compete native species is a major cause of recent In the early 1990s, TRAFFIC estimated the value of legal extinctions. Wildlife traders have purposely introduced many wildlife products imported globally to be around US$160 invasive species, such as American Mink, Red-eared billion. Others have estimated that legal wood product exports Terrapin and many plant species. in 1999 were more than US$132 billion and legal seafood exports in 1998 around US$50 billion. Hotspots By the very nature of the illegal wildlife trade, it is almost Areas where wildlife trade is particularly threatening are known impossible to obtain reliable figures, but it is estimated that as “wildlife trade hotspots.” These include China’s international totals run into the hundreds of millions of dollars. The U.S. borders, trade hubs in East/Southern Africa and Southeast State Department estimates that the market value of illegal Asia, the eastern borders of the European Union, some wildlife products has reached US$10 billion a year and possibly markets in Mexico, parts of the Caribbean, parts of Indonesia twice that. and New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. According to William Clark, chairman of the Interpol Working Group on Wildlife Crime, illegal trafficking in wildlife is linked to violence, corruption, fraud, smuggling, conspiracy, robbery, health violations, drug trafficking and weapons trafficking. There is also significant money laundering and tax evasion involved.

Problems

As human populations have grown, so has the demand for wildlife. People in developed countries have become used to a lifestyle that fuels demand for wildlife; they expect to have access to a variety of seafoods, leather goods, timbers, medicinal ingredients, textiles, etc. Conversely, extreme poverty of others means they regard wildlife as a means to meet their short-term needs and will trade it for whatever they can get.

Over-exploitation of wildlife is a major concern: • Wildlife is vital to a high proportion of the world’s population. People depend directly on wildlife for consumption and as a way of earning cash. However, irresponsible wildlife trade is

62 © Cat HOLLOWAY / WWF-Canon 63

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 1: Tuna

Tuna are large oceanic fish in the family Scombridae. They • Skipjack (Euthynnus or Katsuwonus pelamis): Found are seasonally migratory, travelling hundreds of miles and throughout the world’s tropical and warm temperate sometimes making trans-oceanic journeys. They may be waters, catches of this species account for half the found in variable numbers in almost every temperate, sub- annual global tuna supply. Also marketed as aku, canned tropical or tropical waters. Compared to some fishes, tuna light tuna, arctic bonito, striped tuna, these fish may be are late to mature and can reach ages of 10-25 years, mixed with other species when processed. It is most depending on the species. Blue-fin tuna are slower growing often sold as canned light tuna (much of which is caught than the smaller albacore, skipjack and yellow-fin tunas. An by purse seine), but is sometimes sold fresh and frozen. adult Atlantic blue-fin can be more than 2 m long and weigh • Yellow-fin (Thunnus albacares): Found throughout the 500 kg. All commercially important tunas need warm water world’s tropical and subtropical seas, except the to breed, although several species are warm-blooded, Mediterranean, this species is also marketed as ahi enabling them to live in cooler waters. They are fast when fresh and frozen, and canned light tuna. It is the swimmers and, unlike most fish whose flesh is white, tuna main species for canning and is caught mainly by flesh is pink to dark red. purse seine fleets. Tuna fisheries include both low-value (less than US$1/kg), high-volume fisheries that supply the canneries, and high- Conservation issues value (more than US$500/kg), low-volume fisheries that Three species of tuna are listed on the IUCN Red List: specialize in fresh tuna. There are seven commercially fished • Northern or Atlantic blue-fin (Endangered in the east species, including: Atlantic and Critically Endangered in the west Atlantic); • Southern blue-fin (Thunnus maccoyii): Found in • Southern blue-fin (Critically Endangered); and temperate and cold seas of the southern hemisphere, these fish migrate to the tropics to spawn. They are • Big-eye (Vulnerable). fished mainly by Japan, Korea, Australia and New A fourth species, albacore tuna, is considered Data Zealand, and consumed mainly by Japan. Deficient, but with stocks considered threatened in the North Atlantic (Vulnerable) and South Atlantic (Critically • Pacific northern blue-fin (Thunnus orientalis): Endangered). Found mainly in subtropical regions of the north Pacific Ocean, this species is both fished and Several conservation issues affect all seven commercially consumed mainly by Japan. fished tuna species, principally: • Northern or Atlantic blue-fin (Thunnus thynnus): This Overfishing: World catches of tuna have doubled in the last species is found in the northern half of the Atlantic decade. All species, except some stocks of skipjack, are Ocean, the Mediterranean and the southern Black Sea. considered fully exploited, over-exploited or depleted. The popularity of sashimi and sushi is one cause of overfishing, • Big-eye (Thunnus obesus): Also known as Ahi, Po’onui, especially of the three species of blue-fin tuna (also known Patudo, this is a tropical and subtropical species with as kuromaguro, atun de aleta azul, thon rouge and horse separate stocks in the Atlantic, Indian, Western and mackerel), which are the most valuable fish in the world. Central Pacific, and Eastern Pacific Oceans. Overfishing is made worse by the fact that juvenile tunas • Albacore (Thunnus alalunga): Also known as Tombo, (e.g. big-eye) are often caught as by-catch in the purse canned white tuna, longfin tunny, and albacora, this is a seine fisheries targeted for adult tuna. The long-term effects highly migratory fish found in all oceans but less common on marine ecosystems of removing large fish such as tuna in the tropics. It is available as canned “white” tuna and are not fully understood. fresh and frozen.

64 • • type: of gear level the The to America. according North varies of by-catch coast the Atlantic, off east harpoons and by Mediterranean and the in traps tunas in blue-fin taken Atlantic are example for used, traditional still fisheries, are high-value methods few a In hand driftnets. lines, and troll lines include methods Other and long-line. pole and seine, line, purse tuna: catching for methods fishing species: non-target of By-catch nicigdlhn ntesraei re onttuna net to order in surface the on by dolphins targeted encircling are schools tuna if is damaging species, particularly several for used is which Purse-seining, regulations. by-catch strict to subject are fleets Hawaiian long-liner and Atlantic U.S. or The threatened species. these endangered of some of decline long-term to the heavily contributing are fleets seabirds. long-line and International billfish turtles, sea by- sharks, the of in catch results blue-fin, and for big-eye method albacore, common catching most the is which fishing, Long-line hr r he main three are There 65 • ako esesrstefseyi dlhnfree’. ‘dolphin is fishery the ensures the nets and of used, lack are stern hooks the Barbless off individually. pole fish, landed jigging the and a attract with to hooked bait then using are by which or surface line, the and near pole or with on and lures artificial with fished trolling is by albacore either example, For fishing by-catch. trap little and very harpoon, have line, and pole line, and Hook fish pelagic sharks. other and and tuna, yellow-fin and big-eye include young can by-catch ‘fish the or (FADs), objects devices’ floating aggregating on set are the they reduces If escape problem. to dolphins allow to nets of slackening technique the although large by-catch, catch of still amounts may nets seine purse tuna’ but ‘dolphin-safe below), (see reduced This much dolphins. been of has millions practice killed has nets, past the the in in caught which are tuna and dolphins beneath Both school them. to tend that yellow-fin) large (particularly

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Factsheet 1 continued

Management problems: Although individual countries are Species to choose responsible for managing tuna stocks that occur and are Albacore: fished within their own waters, much tuna fishing takes place on the high seas, where it is managed by regional • American Albacore Fishing Association (AAFA) pole and fisheries management organisations (RFMOs). In practice, line and troll fisheries in the North and South Pacific. however, the advice of these RFMOs is sometimes Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified in 2007. disregarded. Japan, for example, has caught double its • British Columbia (troll/pole) and Hawaii (troll/pole/hand- quota of Southern blue-fin tunas for the last 20 years and line/long-line). MBA ranking: Best choice. some Mediterranean countries appear to have disregarded Big-eye: quotas, too. • Hawaii (troll/pole and hand-line) and worldwide Sea-ranching: The migratory, fast swimming life-style of (troll/pole). MBA ranking: Good alternative. tuna means that they are not suitable for farming. However, Skipjack: sea ranching is carried out for blue-fin tuna in the Mediterranean, Mexico and Australia. This involves fattening • Pole and line, and troll fisheries worldwide. MBA ranking: wild caught fish in floating cages for a few months to two Best choice – although the Marine Conservation Society years. The technique has had significant management (MCS) rates this fishery 3, or cause for concern. issues, with environmental problems and an increase in • Hawaii, hand-line. MBA ranking: Best choice. fishing effort, leading to calls for a moratorium on the • Hawaii, long-line. MBA ranking: Good alternative (due to practice and better enforcement of minimum size for strict by-catch regulations). catches of juvenile tuna. Yellow-fin: • U.S. Atlantic Ocean, pole and troll. MBA ranking: Best choice. • U.S. Atlantic Ocean, long-line. MBA ranking: Good alternative. • Pole and troll worldwide. MBA ranking: Good alternative – although MCS rates this fishery 3, or cause for concern. • Hawaii, hand-line. MBA ranking: Good alternative. © Michel GUNTHER / WWF-Canon ‘Dolphin-safe or –friendly’ canned skipjack, albacore and yellow-fin: This is tuna caught using methods that do not involve the deliberate hunting, capture and death of dolphins, e.g. trolling, pole or hand-line, or with purse seine nets, according to a strict set of standards including:

• No intentional chasing, netting or encirclement of dolphins; • No use of drift gill nets to catch tuna; • No accidental killing or serious injury to any dolphins during net sets;

66 www.edf.org or www.oceansalive.org levels. see mercury information, lower more with For tuna younger involve troll/pole-caught these for as advisory fish health levels no elevated is to There due mercury. tuna, of canned all for long-line- and all tuna, for caught advisory health a issued has organisation, non-governmental U.S. a Defense, Environmental • • • • • • • concern particular of Species mammals. marine marine with and interaction turtles low and by-catch of levels Low Atlantic: tuna the yellow-fin in and skipjack for fisheries seine Purse • • i ecp ..Atlantic): U.S. (except yellow- fin and Hawaii) (except skipjack caught Long-line concern). for as (cause Hawaii) 4 (including Pacific and Atlantic south the ae ob rtmoahi. tombo Hawai’ian or its tombo under name, marketed often of is instead It red brown. pinkish light is meat its and albacore other Avoid. ranking: Pacific: MBA South the in albacore caught Long-line Avoid. ranking: Big-eye: caught wild. Long-line the from juveniles of capture on relies species tunas: blue-fin ranched or Farmed Blue-fin: Northern Pacific Blue-fin: Southern Avoid. ranking: MBA (avoid); processing. and the filleting was to that prior if is case know it to sustainable, consumers be for may impossible size virtually in kg 30 over and legally Blue-fin: Atlantic or Northern observer independent an board. have on to size certain by a Ocean of Pacific vessels tropical eastern the in trips and Fishing facilities; storage or processing in individual or in wells, tuna boat other with dolphin-safe of mixing No C aig (avoid). 5 rating: MCS hsfs suulylre than larger usually is fish This B akn:Avoid. ranking: MBA C aig (avoid). 5 rating: MCS C aig aod;MBA (avoid); 5 rating: MCS C rates MCS hltidvdascaught individuals Whilst amn fthese of Farming C aig 5 rating: MCS laoefrom albacore 67 guides/index.cfm solutions/sustainable_fishing/sustainable_seafood/seafood_ http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/what_we_do/marine/our_ Sweden, Switzerland: Spain, Africa, South Poland, Norway, Netherlands, Indonesia, Kong, Hong Germany, Denmark, France, Belgium, Finland, for available – Guides Seafood WWF www.seafoodchoices.com Alliance: Choices Seafood www.mbayaq.org/cr/seafoodwatch.asp Watch: Seafood Aquarium Bay Monterrey http://eng.msc.org/ Council: Stewardship Marine www.fishonline.org Guide: Seafood Sustainable Society’s Conservation Marine Australia. TRAFFIC WWF tuna. and big-eye International of management addressing global future: the the in to failures eye an With (2007). M. Lack, www.earthisland.org/dolphinSafeTuna/consumer/ tuna: -safe” or “dolphin- friendly certified on information Institute’s Island Earth Tuna: Blue-fin www.ccsbt.org Southern of Conservation the for Commission Seafood: Friendly www.blueocean.org/seafood Ocean to Guide Institute Ocean Blue http://www.amcs.org.au/default2.asp?active_page_id=137 Society: Conservation the Marine from Australian available – Guide Seafood Sustainable Australia’s information further of Sources eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 2: Salmon © Kevin SCHAFER / WWF-Canon

Salmon spawn in fresh water rivers. The young migrate to quantities of these fish are exported from Russia to China sea after one to three years and return after up to three for processing. years at sea to spawn in their natal rivers. • Coho or silver salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch): Pacific salmon occur from California north along the Pacific This species, which averages 5.5 kg (12 pounds), is coast to the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean waters adjacent to caught from Oregon to Alaska and accounts for less than Alaska, and throughout the far eastern waters of Russia and 10 percent of U.S. wild salmon catches in most years. Japan. There are five species of Pacific salmon: • Sockeye or red salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka): • Chinook or king salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha): These fish make up the second-largest, and most The largest Pacific species, these fish weigh an valuable, wild salmon fishery in North America, with 75 average of five-to-eight kg (11-18 pounds), live four to percent of the global catch originating in Alaskan waters. nine years, and are found from the Yukon River in Alaska A major sockeye fishery in Russia supplies Japan and to central California. other Asian countries. • Chum, dog or keta salmon (Oncorhynchus keta): • Pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha): This species weighs an average of 3.5 kg (eight pounds), The most abundant species, pink salmon usually account and is found in Japan, Russia and along the Pacific coast for more than half of the U.S. commercial wild salmon of North America from Washington state to Alaska. Large catch. Large quantities are exported from Russia to China for processing.

68 akt nAi,Erp n ot America. North and Europe Asia, in commercial markets ‘healthy’ supply from fisheries salmon Pacific to northeast close The found stocks. are or caught with regularly mix are they they as however fished; be not and may Act thus Species Endangered U.S. or the Threatened under as Endangered listed are salmon where Significant (ESUs), Evolutionarily Units called locations 30 some Northwest, are Pacific there the and California in complicates Thus, which management. time, are same areas the different at from caught Salmon often runs. large viable few a apart from depleted, significantly are Washington and California, Oregon in stocks salmon pink and sockeye coho, Chinook, development. urban and deforestation by construction, caused dam habitats rearing and spawning their and to freshwater damage and overfishing to due dramatically salmon: Pacific little cause and damage. by-catch habitat low have methods the these touch floor; rarely sea which gear), and hook-and-line seines, (or purse gear gillnets, trolling set and used drift gear includes The sea survival. at their to threat is primary which the loss, currently habitat to vulnerable particularly areas them freshwater makes specific on salmon of dependence The issues Conservation Japan. including the countries Chile, Asian UK, several the and Norway, U.S., Canada, in farmed is chinook coho) (mainly and salmon Pacific farmed salmon. of Atlantic percent is 89 salmon About salmon. 86 farmed for all accounting of together percent producers, main the and are Chile UK Norway, the annually). tons farmed metric is million market 1.4 salmon (some global the of percent 60 About is rivers in salmon popular. for very fishing sport although sea, place at takes mainly salmon wild largest of the fishing Japan Commercial with market. East, Far the Europe, and in America salmon North for demand vast a is There salar of species commercial main The hc custruhu uoenwaters. European throughout occurs which , ouain fPcfcslo aedeclined have salmon Pacific of Populations tatcsalmon Atlantic is Salmo 69 ytm nti tt;te r loagetdb hatchery by augmented also operations. are they state; this freshwater in pristine systems comparatively the to due are partly Populations healthy, available. smoked widely and more fresh becoming the is while product U.S., the and goes Europe salmon to Canned mainly Japan. to frozen mainly or exported, fresh is the product of percent 75 About and salmon). coho chinook chum, remainder 25 the and with salmon, sockeye, pink percent is percent 50 U.S. (over of salmon majority Pacific vast the comprise U.S.: fisheries waters, salmon Alaskan Alaskan from species) five (all salmon Pacific CAUGHT WILD choose to Species • • • • • of impacts include: The farming grounds. salmon spawning and food for competing them by with stocks wild of threaten escapes can and fish runs, hatchery-reared salmon wild near or be in may located Hatcheries areas. many in problems environmental salmon: Farmed species. declining and threatened a as Atlantic of East Environment North Marine the the of Protection OSPAR the the for by Convention listed is salmon Atlantic routes. migration to impediments loss, and habitat aquaculture to pollution, due overfishing, range, native their of much throughout salmon: Atlantic urnl ersn n-hr ftegoa ihharvest. fish global the of one-third represent oil feed currently and to fishmeal fish overfishing; wild exacerbates from salmon oil farmed fish and fishmeal of use The and diversity; genetic of pool population, overall same the the altering of stocks wild local and with fish interbreed wild with compete salmon farmed Escaped farms; between wild and and fish, farmed between transfer parasites and Viruses health; human affect farms negatively in subsequently easily can spreads that disease control to and pesticides antifoulants antibiotics, of use excessive communities; The its and seabed the damage that food waste from and nutrients excess and chemicals from Pollution aieSeadhpCucl(S)certified (MSC) Council Stewardship Marine tcso tatcslo r threatened are salmon Atlantic of Stocks amnhthre n am aecaused have farms and hatcheries Salmon in

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Factsheet 2 continued

2000, and re-assessment started in 2005. MBA – Best Sources of further information Choice, MCS 1 (good). Note: there are concerns about the Australia’s Sustainable Seafood Guide – available from the long-term health of wild salmon populations in California, Australian Marine Conservation Society: Washington and Oregon. In particular, the chinook fishery in http://www.amcs.org.au/default2.asp?active_page_id=137 California was closed in 2008 due to a recent population Blue Ocean Institute Guide to Ocean Friendly Seafood: crash (Californian chinook is marketed widely in California www.blueocean.org/seafood and exported to other parts of the U.S., Japan, Germany and the UK). Clarke, S. (2007). Trading tails: Russian Salmon fisheries and East Asian markets. TRAFFIC East Asia. FARMED MCS advises choosing Atlantic salmon certified by the Soil Knapp, G., C. Roheim and J. Anderson. 2007. The Great Association as organic, and/or by the RSPCA/SSPCA Salmon Run: Competition Between Wild and Farmed Freedom Foods scheme. Salmon. TRAFFIC North America. Washington, D.C.: World Wildlife Fund. WWF advises choosing salmon from farms that: Marine Conservation Society’s Sustainable Seafood Guide: • are located away from protected areas, important wild www.fishonline.org salmon rivers, and other threatened wildlife; Marine Stewardship Council: http://eng.msc.org/ • have a good history of preventing and minimizing the Monterrey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch: impacts of escapes; www.mbayaq.org/cr/seafoodwatch.asp • have low levels of disease; Seafood Choices Alliance: www.seafoodchoices.com • minimize the use of antifouling chemicals through the use WWF Seafood Guides – available for Belgium, Denmark, of double nets and mechanical cleaning (followed by Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, water treatment) or cleaner fish/wrasse; Netherlands, Norway, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, • fall under a traceability scheme; Switzerland: • do not use fish meal/fish oil feed ingredients from http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/what_we_do/marine/our_ overexploited, depleted or recovering fish stocks; and solutions/sustainable_fishing/sustainable_seafood/seafood_ guides/index.cfm • use feed that maximizes the use of marine by-products (i.e. overall compositions of fishmeal less than 35 percent, WWF Salmon Aquaculture Dialogue: fish oil less than 27 percent, and a feed conversion ratio www.worldwildlife.org/aquadialogues less than 1.15). While the information presented in this factsheet was Species of particular concern believed to be correct at the time of going to press in

• Wild-caught Atlantic salmon: MCS rating: 4 (cause 2008, it may have changed since then. Hoteliers are for concern). advised to check local and international regulations and recommendations on the products discussed here. • Non-organic farmed Atlantic or Pacific salmon: The MBA recommends avoiding farmed salmon in general, but farmed salmon certified as organic or from well-managed farms (see above) is considered a very good choice.

70 71

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 3: Molluscs

Hundreds of mollusc species are consumed as seafood. SCALLOPS Most species are fast-growing and produce large numbers There are over 360 species of scallops, which are distributed of young, and thus potentially can withstand considerable broadly throughout the world. They are popular in many harvesting. The three main groups involved in the countries, typically served cooked in or out of the shell or international seafood trade are: raw as sushi, and available fresh or frozen. • Bivalves – filter feeding molluscs with two shells, e.g. Sea scallops are an economically important species in the mussels, scallops, oysters; Atlantic Ocean, with fisheries in the United States and • Gastropods – snail-like animals, e.g. Queen conch; and Canada. The majority consumed locally are wild-caught. • Cephalopods – soft-bodied, mobile animals, Scallops are farmed in 20 countries, the main producers e.g. squid, octopus. being China and Japan, followed by Chile and Peru. About Although some species are taken from the wild, molluscs 15 species of scallop are farmed and account for some 60 are particularly important as they make up about 25 percent percent of world scallop production. Farmed scallops are of the world's aquaculture production. China is the top available year-round, but fresh scallops may be limited in producer, with just over 80 percent of world production, specific regions for food safety reasons. followed by Japan, the U.S., France, Thailand, Spain, New Conservation issues Zealand and Italy. Most molluscs used as seafood are bivalves, which are filter feeders that obtain their nutrition by The sea scallop population in the North Atlantic is relatively removing suspended particles from water. This makes them healthy and abundant and is well-managed, but the highly suitable for farming as they do not require feeding. population in the Mid-Atlantic region (North Carolina to New Wild spat or juveniles are collected in areas of natural York) is overfished. spatfalls or produced in hatcheries, and then ‘grown-out’ to Scallops are usually caught by dredging, and to a lesser marketable size on a variety of surfaces (trays, ropes, rafts, extent trawling, both methods that cause severe damage to etc.), either on the bottom or suspended in the water. the sea floor, and may result in by-catch of marine turtles Bivalve farming has a low impact on the marine environment and fish. Closed areas, gear modifications, and catch limits as there is no feeding with fishmeal or fish oil and hence no can be used to reduce fish by-catch, but high numbers of pressure on other fisheries, and no increased nutrient input loggerhead turtles are still injured and killed in the Mid- to coastal waters. Bivalves may even make surrounding Atlantic. Hand-collection by divers is the preferred method waters cleaner by filtering out nutrients and organic matter. for harvesting wild scallops, since diving is restricted by Fertilizers, antibiotics and other chemicals are seldom used. depth to less than 30 m, which means that populations in There are, however, a few potential negative impacts to deeper water are protected and act as breeding stock. In mollusc farming, including effects on the nutrient balance Europe, scallops hand-collected by divers are generally of the seabed, introduction of disease in wild populations larger and of better quality than dredged scallops. and escape of non-native species that may out-compete The spat for farmed scallops are collected from the wild or wild stock. produced in hatcheries and transplanted to sites in coastal In the UK, the Soil Association has developed standards to waters. They are either suspended in the water-column (for certify several bivalves as organic, including mussels, harvesting by hand) or laid on the seabed for grow-out scallops and clams. Certification will provide assurance that (harvested by dredging, which can damage the seabed). The farming causes minimum negative impacts on the use of wild scallop spat does not appear to harm natural surrounding environment, that wastes are re-used and scallop populations, because it is transplanted to locations recycled wherever possible, and that harvesting is that are generally superior to those where it would settle environmentally-friendly (e.g. no dredging for scallops). naturally. However, in China the abundance of scallops in

72 73

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends © Hartmut JUNGIUS / WWF-Canon the wild is generally low, and wild spat collection may have a FARMED SCALLOPS negative impact. • Europe. Responsibly managed farmed scallops (e.g. King Scallops), and those certified as organic. Species to choose • Farmed Bay scallops (Argopecten irradians). MBA WILD-CAUGHT SCALLOPS: ranking: Best when produced by off-bottom techniques. • Patagonian scallop (Zygochlamys patagonica). Marine On-bottom, dredged scallops are considered a Good Stewardship Council (MSC) certified in 2006. The fishery Alternative. is mainly in Argentinean waters, but the product is • Farmed scallops from China. WWF Hong Kong: available “frozen-at-sea” in Europe, the U.S. and Canada. recommended. • Wild-caught hand-collected scallops in Europe: Species of particular concern - King scallop (Pecten maximus). MCS rating: 2 (cause for concern). • Wild-caught scallops harvested by dredging, such as those from the U.S. Mid-Atlantic. - Atlantic scallop (Placoplecten magellicanus). MCS rating: 3 (cause for concern). OYSTERS

- Queen scallop (Aequipecten opercularis). Oysters are filter-feeding bivalves found in most of the MCS rating: 3 (cause for concern). world’s oceans, except near polar extremes. They reproduce • Wild-caught Giant Sea Scallop from northeast U.S. and quickly and prolifically, but overharvesting, habitat Canada. MBA ranking: Good choice. destruction, and the introduction of diseases have severely reduced their populations in the wild. Wild-caught oysters • Wild-caught Australia scallop. WWF Hong Kong: are not very common, and farmed oysters account for 97 recommended. percent of the world’s total oyster consumption (4.6 million

74 Factsheet 3 continued

tonnes annually). China produces over 80 percent of the Species to choose world’s farmed oysters but these are for domestic • Farmed Pacific oyster: MCS rating: 1 (good); MBA consumption. The other main producers of farmed oysters ranking: Best choice. are Korea, Japan, France and the United States. The majority of farmed oysters (97 percent) are Pacific oysters • Farmed oysters from China: WWF Hong Kong: (Crassostrea gigas), which originated in northeastern Asia. recommended. Choose products from farms that use off- These oysters reach market size in three to four years, bottom culture techniques and hand-harvesting, rather compared to five to six years for some other species. than dredging. • Wild-caught U.S. Gulf of Mexico and Canada oysters: Conservation issues MBA ranking: Good choice. The European flat or native oyster (Ostrea edulis) is depleted MUSSELS in the wild throughout most of its range. Pollution of nearshore waters and destruction of habitat have made Some 90 percent of world mussel production is from wild oysters scarce in some areas. In addition, dredge- aquaculture, and the main producers are China, Spain, harvesting of oysters can damage seafloor habitat. Areas Italy, Thailand, France and New Zealand. The United States once noted for their large natural beds are now being used produces less than 0.1 percent of global aquaculture for oyster farming production and relies on imports primarily from Canada Most oyster farming operations are privately owned and and New Zealand. Mussels are the most common species well-managed. Oysters are bred in hatcheries and then of shellfish farmed in the UK, where a number of species grown on in intertidal waters, usually in semi-rigid plastic are used. Farmed mussels are available year-round, but mesh bags, supported by steel trestles or placed in fresh mussels may be limited in specific regions for food elongated cages suspended between a series of poles safety reasons. submerged in seawater during high tide. Larger oysters may Conservation issues be re-laid loose onto the seabed where there is firm gravel ground. The best farming areas are sheltered sites with Farming methods for mussels are generally environmentally some mixing of marine and fresh water. Pacific oyster sound, as suspension methods are usually used. Spat for producers in temperate areas rely on spat from oyster off-bottom culture, which accounts for about 85 percent of hatcheries, as this species generally does not spawn in cool production, are normally captured from the water column waters, although recent warmer weather is inducing with spat collectors. In on-bottom culture, spat are dredged reproduction. The native European oyster is also farmed. from natural sites and placed on the seabed, and after grow- Manual harvesting methods cause less disturbance to out are harvested by dredging, which can damage the sediment than mechanical methods, but are less suited to seabed. Increased organic matter concentration, lower deeper water for practical reasons. The introduction of redox potential, and decreased benthic diversity may be oysters to non-native areas can introduce diseases, and found beneath and around the edges of suspended mussel concerns are growing about the impacts of genetically aquaculture sites, but this tends to be relatively minor. altered oysters being raised in the wild. Escape of mussels is uncommon. Because diseases are rare, mussel producers are less affected by outbreaks than other bivalve producers, and so antibiotics are rarely used. Best Management Practices (BMPs) for mussel farming

have been developed in Canada and New Zealand. Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends

75 Factsheet 3 continued

Species to choose larger than this are likely to be illegally sourced. Abalone are fed on algae, although a manufactured feed is also used. An • Farmed worldwide: MBA ranking: Best. Seek out abalone aquaculture industry is developing around Europe, mussels that have been grown in suspended culture, mainly in Ireland where H. discus hannai and H. tuberculata rather than on the seabed. have been imported, and there are prospective aquaculture ABALONE (ormer (France), perlemoen (South Africa)) developments in France, England, Spain and Scotland.

Abalone are herbivorous gastropods in the genus Haliotis, Species to choose found throughout much of the world (including Europe, South Africa, along the Pacific coast of North America, • Wild-caught abalone from Australia. WWF Hong Kong: Japan, China, Australia and New Zealand). They are highly recommended. prized, particularly in Asia where the meat may fetch up to • Farmed abalone in UK and Europe (Haliotis tuberculata US$1,000/kg during Chinese New Year. Wild and farmed and Haliotis discus hanai). MCS rating: 1 (good). abalone from Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, • Farmed Red, Green and Pink Abalone from the U.S.. Japan and China fulfil most of the global demand. There are MBA ranking: Best choice. commercial fisheries for Haliotis tuberculata in France and Spain, and a small abalone aquaculture industry in • Farmed abalone from China. WWF Hong Kong: California, with most of the product exported to Asia. recommended.

Conservation issues Species of particular concern

Many wild populations of abalone have been depleted due • Wild-caught abalone from South Africa and California to over-harvesting. Abalone stocks have plummeted in —until effective measures to tackle excessive poaching South Africa, where most of the abalone harvested is are put in place. exported to East Asia, particularly Hong Kong. Continued QUEEN CONCH illegal harvesting and trade could have a severe impact on the survival of the species. All five major abalone fisheries on A large marine gastropod mollusc found only in the the Pacific coast of California are depleted as a result of Caribbean, queen conch (Strombus gigas) is slow-moving over 50 years of heavy fishing (both sport and commercial), and easy to pick up by hand, or with simple fishing gear poaching, predation by an increasing population of sea (poke poles). Conchs are especially vulnerable to fishing otters, pollution of mainland habitat, disease and inadequate during the spawning season, when they gather in large wild stock management. In an effort to rebuild stocks, the numbers. They are long-lived and mature late, making them commercial fishery was closed in 1997, although a sport vulnerable to fishing pressure. Both the commercial and fishery remains open north of San Francisco. The French recreational conch fisheries in Florida are closed due to abalone fishery is regulated by a permit and quota system, overfishing, and stocks have been slow to recover, partly but this is poorly enforced. Stocks in Brittany have only due to pollution and habitat loss. There is much illegal partially recovered since a severe bacterial disease fishing in other countries, with only a few having adequate devastated them in 1996/7. In Spain, the fishery has had to management. Farming has been attempted, but to date has close on at least two occasions due to pollution. not been commercially successful, although there is a farm Abalone is farmed in California under strict regulations to in the Turks and Caicos. This species is listed in Appendix II control disease and pest problems (sabellid worm and of CITES. withering foot syndrome). The farm-raised abalone have a The Monterrey Bay Aquarium recommends that this species maximum harvesting size of four-inch long shells; abalone be avoided.

76 n h Mediterranean. the Atlantic and Northeast a the forbesi), throughout (Loligo found squid species Atlantic widespread in fishery major a is There Ocean. squid Indian lands the India from imports. solely squid U.S. of percent for 80 accounting nearly Thailand and China, Korea with South squid, India, fish Taiwan, territories or countries harvest. 30 squid than world’s More the half over for account squid argentinus), shortfin Argentine the and pacificus) squid (Todarodes flying Japanese the species, fished two are commercially, squid of species 100 almost Although CALAMARI OR SQUID (Illex 77 aisoe ieadacrigt oain si eed on depends it as location, to according and time abundance over But varies pressure. fishing making to age, resilient young highly a them at reproduce and quickly grow Squid as countries. simply exporting labelled by is ‘squid’ squid most for seafood; origin as of sold fishery squid and name species determine often to is difficult it Furthermore, overfishing. raise possible data, about fishery concerns unreliable and management no or with little combined factors, These wide abundance. show of and fluctuations recruitment, overlap erratic little highly months), and 18 generations to of (six cycles life short have Squid issues Conservation

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Factsheet 3 continued

ocean conditions such as temperature and prey availability. Some fisheries have experienced large fluctuations in catch, which is not necessarily due to overfishing. In international waters, squid is mostly caught using jigs or trawls, both of which have low by-catch. Squid fisheries on the high seas are not managed, and stock abundance is largely unknown. Squid play an important role in marine food webs as both predator and prey and are an important source of food for marine mammals such as sperm whales. This is a matter of concern as, increasingly, squid are becoming the target in areas where other species have declined due to overfishing.

Species to choose

• Wild-caught squid, worldwide. MBA ranking: Good alternative; WWF Hong Kong:, recommended. • Trawl-caught longfin squid, U.S. Atlantic Ocean. MBA ranking: Best choice. • Trawl-caught shortfin squid, U.S. Atlantic Ocean. MBA ranking: Good alternative. • Wild-caught jumbo squid, Gulf of California. MBA ranking: Good alternative.

Species of particular concern

Squid taken in industrial or large-scale commercial fisheries, which remove large quantities of squid at the base of the food chain. MCS rating: 4 (cause for concern).

OCTOPUS

Octopus grow rapidly and are probably three to four years old when sexually mature. Unlike the mass spawning behaviour of squid, octopus reproduction involves females laying eggs, guarding them and dying once the eggs hatch. In Europe, both the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) and the lesser octopus (Eledone cirrhosa) are taken as by-catch in trawl fisheries. They are also taken in earthenware pots which they enter instinctively in order to hide. Octopus are not subject to stock assessment or quota controls; there is no minimum landing size for the lesser octopus, but there is a minimum landing weight of 750 grammes for common octopus. © Michel GUNTHER / WWF-Canon

78 • choose to Species • • • • • • • choose to Species farmed. MSC are the species by Many certified below). been (see has fishery to cockle damage A considerable seabed. in the results and sediment clams the wash of to out jets water pressurized uses hydraulic which by dredging, harvested commonly and are healthy they is but clams abundant, surf Atlantic of population hard The and clam. clam soups softshell in quahog, (used ocean clam chowders), surf and Atlantic the are U.S. in eastern clams the wild-caught common are most bivalves, The of popular. diversity a particularly wide Clams, a seafood. for in used used name are generic molluscs other of array vast A MOLLUSCS OTHER • The • concern particular of Species cou species. Octopus amdcas China. clams, Farmed choice. Best ranking: MBA cockles). littlenecks, (steamers, clams Farmed Ocean. Atlantic U.S. clams), (black quahog ocean Wild-caught alternative. Good ranking: MBA Ocean. Atlantic U.S. chowder), cherrystone, neck, (little clams hard Wild-caught alternative. Good ranking: Ocean. MBA Atlantic U.S. clams, surf Atlantic Wild-caught Ocean. Atlantic U.S. fryer), (longneck, shell/steamers soft Wild-caught Portugal. and Spain, France to Holland, exported are some to although locally retailers, sold UK and sieving and hand-raking are by cockles gathered where Wales South in fishery traditional Fishery Cockle Inlet Burry Avoid. Kong: Hong WWF Sea. China South the from breed. Cuttlefish to chance no had have will they as C eomnsavoiding recommends MCS B akn:Bs choice. Best ranking: MBA C aig cuefrconcern). for (cause 3 rating: MCS B akn:Go alternative. Good ranking: MBA W ogKn:recommended. Kong: Hong WWF A edule): (Cerastoderma S certified. MSC eating ayoctopus baby , 79 eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While guides/index.cfm solutions/sustainable_fishing/sustainable_seafood/seafood_ http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/what_we_do/marine/our_ Switzerland: Sweden, Spain, Africa, South Poland, Norway, Netherlands, Indonesia, Kong, Hong Germany, Denmark, France, Belgium, Finland, for available – Guides Seafood WWF www.worldwildlife.org/aquadialogues Dialogue: Aquaculture Mollusc WWF www.worldwildlife.org/aquadialogues Dialogue: Aquaculture Abalone WWF www.seafoodchoices.com Alliance: Choices Seafood www.mbayaq.org/cr/seafoodwatch.asp Watch: Seafood Aquarium Bay Monterrey http://eng.msc.org/ Council: Stewardship Marine www.fishonline.org guide: seafood sustainable Society’s Conservation Marine Research. Shellfish ormer J. the Europe. of in Status industry 2004. J. Clavier, and S.M.H. Huchette, Seafood: Friendly www.blueocean.org/seafood Ocean to Guide Institute Ocean Blue http://www.amcs.org.au/default2.asp?active_page_id=137 Society: Conservation the Marine from Australian available – Guide Seafood Sustainable Australia’s information further of Sources

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 4: Seafoods specific to Asia © Soh Koon CHNG / WWF-Canon

80 ,whale List maximus ), Red (Cetorhinus IUCN sharks the Basking on threatened. sharks are of species 20 547 About the capture. of accidental percent from and fins and for meat overfished their heavily are worldwide populations shark Most issues Conservation fisherman. a one- to a $50-60 has of shark value reef time dead year a a whereas US$250,000 tourism, worth dive be through to estimated single is a shark Bahamas reef the live in example, For value. are this declines threatening population but industry, that diving countries a in have value Asia. tourism in important eaten an not have is Sharks but ‘rock’, as in sold cod and for chips substitute and a fish as used sometimes dogfish is is is which exception but shark The countries menus. few restaurant a on in seen eaten rarely is It is value. and low refrigeration of without generally well travel not does meat Korea. Shark and Singapore Kong, Hong Japan, are in there markets though huge China, mainland is and market biggest growing The the fastest valued. but is taste, significance no cultural has and itself texture fin shark The retail US$400/kg. fins over Shark for Asia. East other in and dishes cultures) celebratory Asian traditional many fin in shark dish for prestige used (a and most soup dried the are are they fins as The product, fins. valuable and meat are their countries both 120 for over exploited from shark of species 30-40 About SHARKS • • • • • including: concern, conservation of in and particularly Asia both in are demand that species factsheet the This of world. some the concerns of regions other found in generally menus not on are that consumed are and species restaurants, certain Asian in popular particularly is Seafood Geoduck. and clams; Giant cucumbers; Sea wrasse; snappers humphead groupers, and including (LRFF), fish food reef Live fins; shark especially Sharks, 81 l efo uds nldn hs fteMarine the of those including guides, seafood All concern particular of Species risk health a pose may (http://www.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=16263). that PCBs) (and elevated mercury to of due levels dogfish) (including sharks all health for a advisory issued has Fund Defense Environmental The caught. species the wastage of reduce identification to with fins, assist the and with landed be means must which carcass countries, the some in apart. ‘banned’ tell is to finning difficult Shark very be can species shark regulations. Furthermore, relevant no have countries fisheries, most shark and managed sustainably no are at there but present (FAO), Organisation United Agriculture the and under Food up Nations drawn been has and Sharks Conservation of the Management for Action of Plan International An fish. other for caught intended are gear year fishing each in killed accidentally sharks the all of Half and seabirds. turtles sea can mammals, sharks marine target endangered to catch used longlines or Gillnets species. many other catch accidentally and severely communities, can seafloor which damage nets, trawl use fisheries shark Many trade enter fin year. shark each of tonnes a 10,000 face Some they death. that slow are so animals alive the still and sometimes off overboard, cut thrown are 5 weight, about shark’s only the for of account percent which fins, The is grow. fins to for continuing demand and sharks, the of to decline contributor worldwide main the currently is finning Shark of development fisheries. the shark to specific contributed also in has e.g. and away, Pacific, farther the sharks target led to has operators stocks of fishing shark face Asian Asian the of in loss rapidly The decline exploitation. they intense time, only a to at birth young give few and a late mature 1950. slowly, since grow percent sharks 300 Since by increased and has year, catch each global caught the are sharks million 100 estimated An CITES. of II Appendix in listed are for seafood, demand in not although carcharias), sharks (Carcharodon white great and typus) (Rhincodon sharks

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Factsheet 4 continued

Conservation Society (MCS), Monterrey Bay Aquarium fish from independent fishermen or employ fishers on larger, (MBA) and WWF, recommend that shark should not be locally operated vessels. In some areas, fishermen also sell eaten. Artificial shark fin substitutes, such as seaweed catches directly to visiting foreign LRFF vessels. extracts and animal tendon, are available. In Hong Kong, some 30 organisations have pledged not to buy or sell shark Conservation issues fin soup as part of their corporate activities, under the WWF Many of the species used as LRFF are coral reef fish and are seafood initiative. vulnerable to overfishing, as they grow slowly, are late to mature and are naturally uncommon. Certain species also LIVE REEF FOOD FISH (LRFF) spawn in small aggregations that are easy to fish and can be This group of large-bodied coral reef fish involves about 100 easily depleted; others have very small home ranges. Some species, including certain groupers (Serranidae), snappers change sex as part of their life history, and thus, if a (Lutjanidae), and sea bream (Sparidae). The most well- particular size is targeted by a fishery, one sex may be known is the humphead wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), also preferentially removed. Several species are on the IUCN Red known as the Maori wrasse, Napoleon wrasse or List, including humphead wrasse, which is endangered, and Napoleonfish, which is the largest and most expensive the giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus), which is listed species; large males can reach over two metres in length as vulnerable. The humphead wrasse is also listed in CITES and live for at least 30 years. The WWF Hong Kong guide to Appendix II (i.e. international trade permitted only with an LRFF covers 98 species and gives their common names in export licence, which may only be issued if the source Australia, mainland China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, country has management measures to ensure the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. sustainability of the species; for example, Indonesia has a LRFF are kept alive until just before cooking as this is CITES quota). considered to give a better flavour and texture. Restaurants Although hook and line is often used and is relatively benign, typically prefer certain size classes of fish, smaller ones for the cyanide and large traps that are used in some areas can family dinners and larger ones for banquets. This means that cause habitat damage. for large species, such as the humphead wrasse, the There is some hatchery production of the young of a few preferred ‘plate-sizes’ are usually medium-to-large juveniles, grouper species, but most LRFF come from the wild, either which places even more pressure on exploited populations. as juveniles or as adults, depending on the species. The practice of eating LRFF began in the 1960s in Hong Juveniles are taken from the wild and grown out in floating Kong and has become very common in Chinese cages until they reach marketable plate-size (0.5-1kg). They communities, especially in Cantonese cooking, particularly are often fed on ‘trash-fish’, which is itself sometimes for banquets and special occasions such as Chinese New caught by the highly damaging practice of dynamite fishing. Year. All large humphead wrasse and most other LRFF are These juvenile fisheries threaten the sustainability of wild-caught from reefs from Hong Kong to the Indo-Pacific targeted populations. region, and are exported by air, from as far away as Fiji, the Maldives, the Solomon Islands and the U.S. Marshall Species to choose Islands. Global trade is thought to be worth over US$800 Substitutes, including farmed LRFF or freshwater fish. million per year, with Hong Kong the main centre. LRFF were originally collected by large foreign-owned, Species of particular concern purpose-built transport vessels (mostly from Hong Kong and LRFF, particularly those listed on the IUCN Red List China) employing foreign divers and fishers, but since the and sexually immature specimens. The most common late 1980s and early 1990s, local middlemen either buy live species include:

82 • • • • ot.Aot5 e uubrseisaecommercially are species cucumber sea importation 50 main About the ports. as Kong with Hong Asia, and is China market Singapore, main also The are purposes. but medicinal food, for for used dried and harvested mainly are They families sea the and in starfish urchins), to related (i.e. echinoderms are dwelling cucumbers bottom sea worldwide, markets Asian in Prized CUCUMBERS SEA • • • • • • upakgrouper humpback coralgrouper squaretail coralgrouper leopard wrasse humphead in grouper giant grouper marbled brown grouper areolate grouper duskytail grouper camouflage grouper orange-spotted Eiehlslanceolatus) (Epinephelus Eiehlsareolatus) (Epinephelus Eiehlsbleekeri) (Epinephelus Celnsundulates) (Cheilinus Coietsaltivelis) (Cromileptes Holothuridae Eiehlspolyphekadion) (Epinephelus Petoou leopardus) (Plectropomus Petoou areolatus) (Plectropomus Eiehlsfuscoguttatus) (Epinephelus Eiehlscoioides) (Epinephelus and Stichopodidae. 83 ihmre ead rlmnr lblrve suggests of review result global a preliminary as A variety, demand. bust’ market and high ‘boom the of of Many are collect. fisheries to the easy very them makes their habitat as shallow overfishing, by decimated been have sea cucumbers oceans, world's the throughout common Once issues Conservation place. in management no or little have that countries developing increased from has particularly food dramatically, for cucumbers sea in trade 1980s, international the Since area. monospecific. are fishing fisheries same Temperate the in occur few seldom a that on species focuses generally fishery the Pacific Caribbean), eastern and Ocean, Indian the fishing (e.g. same Elsewhere the grounds. in targeted are Indo- species the several In Pacific, spearing. and in trawling hookah and and waters SCUBA deeper tide, low cucumbers, at sea collection for hand techniques including fishing of variety a are There fuscogilva (H. teatfish white scabra (Holothuria sandfish the include species High-value important. n the and nobilis) (H. teatfish black the ), ).

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends © Jürgen FREUND / WWF-Canon

84 • • should avoided: species be following the possible, Where are labelled. and rarely distinguishable easily not sea are since products identify, cucumber to difficult are these but be avoided, should concern conservation particular of Species concern particular of Species much is there underway. as research soon, change cucumber may sea this sustainable but on fisheries, guidance no is there date, To choose to Species wild. the from taken are wild juveniles on as pressure populations, represents still by- fattening agricultural such as But such products. feeds low-cost using waters calm estuaries or within enclosures in India is and Indonesia sub-adults in wild-caught practised of Fattening production. in yet none are but production, hatchery commercial Australia proposed and have Asia Southeast in Companies Caledonia. and New Vietnam Australia, Indonesia, the India, in Islands, example Solomon for underway, are enterprises several farming and pilot feasible, technically is farming cucumber Sea ahead. gone yet of not II has Appendix this in but cucumbers CITES, sea listing to given consideration been Some has varies. status countries the different but in condition, stocks unknown of in 24 and condition, decline, stable in in three 11 overexploited, are species 28 that continued 4 Factsheet o h qaimtae u h eti ae nOkinawa in eaten is meat the but trade, aquarium the for genera the in clams Hippopus giant of species nine are There géant) bénitier clam, (gigas CLAMS GIANT • cioyamauritania, Actinopyga countries: certain in Concern ananas. fuscus Isostichopus scabra, Holothuria concern: High aatcou californicus. Parastichopus badionotus, Isostichopus frondosa, increases: Cucumaria harvest as concern future for Potential and Tridacna oohrafsoiv,Hltui nobilis, Holothuria fuscogilva, Holothuria in lm r avse mainly harvested are clams Giant . and tcou horrens. Stichopus cioyaechinites, Actinopyga and Thelenota and 85 on.Yuggoukaeotie rmahthr on hatchery a from obtained are Puget geoduck in Young tidelands Sound. private on farmed also is Geoduck U.S. the governments. both Canadian by and monitored tightly is a and on basis managed sustainable be British to The understood sand. is the fishery of Columbia out lifted be and to clams them the a allows around called substrate jet the water loosens directed which a ‘stinger’, using divers by time one a harvested at individually are and clams state The Washington Columbia. in British wild the from taken are Geoduck called is it where Japan, mirugai in highly and is cooking it Chinese because in industry, regarded million US$80 a 1970s now the is until but did fishery It commercial years. important 160 about an over of become at expectancy not recorded life oldest a the has with It years, length). 146 reaching in maturity, m at 2 kg and 1.5 kg - 7.5 0.5 (average world burrowing the largest in the clam is It Alaska). British Southeast state, and Washington Columbia (mainly Canada and U.S. the of (Panopea geoduck the abrupta clam, trunk elephant as known Also GEODUCK specimens. Wild-caught concern particular of Species specimens. Farmed choose to Species Asia in countries Pacific. of the number CITES. and a of in II farmed Appendix are in clams listed Giant are clams Red giant IUCN all the and on List, Vulnerable as listed are species Four (or restaurants. raw in served marinated) sometimes and locally clam eaten giant is Pacific, meat the In muscles. adductor clam giant is species preferred crocea the Tridacna dishes; sushi and sashimi for used called is meat clam In giant Islands. Okinawa, Pacific the and Australia Taiwan, (Japan), saseiso ag lmntv otePcfccoast Pacific the to native clam large of species a is ) or mirukuigai. nTia,temre sfrfeho frozen or fresh for is market the Taiwan, In . Himejako n smainly is and

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Factsheet 4 continued

Vancouver Island and are raised in ‘predator exclusion Lau, P.P.F. and R. Parry-Jones (1999). The Hong Kong trade devices’, which are PVC pipes pushed into the sediment. in live reef fish for food, TRAFFIC East Asia and WWF Hong There are approximately 20,000 to 43,500 of these PVC Kong, Hong Kong. http://www.traffic.org/species- pipes planted per acre on tidelands. There is some reports/traffic_species_fish18.pdf controversy in the area over geoduck farming grow-out and Lau, P.P.F. and L.W.H. Li (2000). Identification Guide to harvest practices. Fishes in the Live Seafood Trade of the Asia-Pacific Region. Geoduck is generally recommended. WWF Hong Kong and Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. Hong Kong. Sources of further information http://www.wwf.org.hk/eng/conservation/wl_trade/reef_fish/ Australia’s Sustainable Seafood Guide – available from the online_guide/index.php Australian Marine Conservation Society: Sadovy, Y.J., T.J. Donaldson, T.R. Graham, F. McGilvray, G.J. www.amcs.org.au/default2.asp?active_page_id=137 Muldoon, M.J. Phillips, M.A. Rimmer, A. Smith and B. Blue Ocean Institute Guide to Ocean Friendly Seafood: Yeeting (2003). While stocks last: the live food reef fish www.blueocean.org/seafood trade, Vol. Asian Development Bank, Manila. IUCN 2007. 2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Sadovy Y., M. Kulbicki, P. Labrosse, Y. Letourneur, P. Lokani www.iucnredlist.org and T.J. Donaldson (2004). The humphead wrasse, Cheilinus undulatus: synopsis of a threatened and poorly known giant Marine Stewardship Council: http://eng.msc.org/ coral reef fish. Reviews in Fish Biology 13:327-364. Monterrey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch: The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) Live Fish www.mbayaq.org/cr/seafoodwatch.asp Trade Initiative: http://www.seaweb.org/programs/asiapacific Seafood Choices Alliance: www.seafoodchoices.com /documents/LiveReef.pdf

World Wide Fund for Nature seafood programme: Sharks www.panda.org Camhi, M., S. Fowler, J. Musick, A. Bräutigam and S. WWF Hong Kong – seafood choice initiative: Fordham (1998). Sharks and their relatives: ecology and www.wwf.org.hk/eng/conservation/seafood conservation. Occasional Paper of the IUCN Species Survival Commission 20. WWF Indonesia seafood guide: www.wwf.or.id/pdf_files/seafoodguide_only.pdf and FAO (2000a). The International Plan of Action for the www.wwf.or.id/index.php?fuseaction=whatwedo.marine_ca Conservation and Management of Sharks. FAO, Rome. mpaign4&language=e Fowler, S.M. and J.A. Musick (2002). IUCN shark specialist LRFF group finning position statement. Bentley N. (1999) Fishing for solutions: Can the live trade in Lack, M. (2006). Conservation of Spiny Dogfish Squalus wild groupers and wrasses from Southeast Asia be acanthias: a role for CITES? TRAFFIC International. managed? Traffic Southeast Asia, Kuala Lumpur. Lack, M. and G. Sant. (2006). Confronting Shark Chu C., C. Kirkpatrick, B. Kwan and Y. Sadovy (2006). Conservation Head On! TRAFFIC International. Final Report: Western Pacific Workshop on Policy, Vannuccini, S. (1999) Shark utilization, marketing and trade. Enforcement and Sustainable Trade for the CITES FAO Fish. Tech. Paper, 389, Rome Appendix II – listed Humphead/Napoleon Wrasse, Cheilinus undulatus 5 - 7 June 2006. WWF Hong Kong, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department Hong Kong SAR, IUCN and TRAFFIC.

86 www.geoduck.org website: geoduck Association Harvesters Underwater Geoduck COP14.62 Document Parties the of 14th Conference Diversity, Biological on Convention 1. Stichopodidae Annex and Holothuriidae families the sea in of cucumbers status trade and Biological 2007. V. Toral-Granda, p. 425 463: No. Paper Technical Fisheries Rome, FAO, Cucumber Management. Sea and in Aquaculture Advances (2004). Hamel (eds) J-F Mercier Uthicke, A. S. and Purcell, S. Conand, C. A., Lovatelli 18:24-33 Bulletin, Information trade? Beche-de-Mer international sustainable promote listing CITES II a Appendix can cucumbers: sea for strategies (2003). Conservation Field J.D. and Johnson K.A. A.W., Bruckner, cucumbers Sea 87 eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 5: Crustaceans

Numerous crustaceans are popular as seafood, ranging water or northern shrimp in the family Pandalidae (25 from large lobsters to small shrimp, and the fisheries percent of the global harvest); warm-water, tropical or themselves are equally diverse, involving various gears and southern shrimp, mainly in the genus Penaeus (50 percent of ranging from small-scale, local enterprises to large the global harvest); and farmed shrimp (25 percent of the commercial industries. Few fisheries have been fully global harvest). Freshwater species are also often used but assessed for their sustainability, particularly the small-scale are not addressed in this factsheet. ones and those in developing countries. This fact sheet About ten species are farmed, most of which are warm- provides a brief guide to some of the more popular species water penaeid shrimp, because of their quick growth and involved, including: large size. Some Penaeid species can adapt to water much • Prawn and shrimp; less saline than seawater, which means they can be farmed in brackish and freshwater systems. These include the • Lobster; and Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei), which is farmed • Crab. widely in western countries, the Chinese white shrimp (P. Information on North American and European crustacean chinensis); and the tiger prawn (P. monodon), which reaches fisheries is more easily available (see seafood guides listed harvest weight in four months and is widely cultivated in under Sources of further information). Hotels and buyers in Asia. All these species grow fast, can be cultured at high Australasia should consult the seafood guide published by densities, and have become the mainstay of shrimp farming the Australian Marine Conservation Society. Hotels and worldwide. Developing countries account for 99 percent of buyers in other regions should try and find out as much as production of farmed shrimp, most coming from China, possible about the sources and methods of harvesting or followed by India, Thailand, Indonesia, Ecuador, Brazil, farming products that are available, and then use the general Bangladesh and Vietnam. The majority is exported to the guidance in the factsheets on seafood to make their choices United States, European Union and Japan. Farming (for example, choose locally caught seafood that is methods range from simple ponds in coastal areas to high- harvested in an environmentally sound way or uses good tech inland systems that filter and re-circulate their water. farming techniques, such as minimising impacts on These methods can be divided into three categories: mangroves and other important habitats). extensive/traditional, semi-intensive and intensive.

PRAWN AND SHRIMP Conservation issues

The names prawn and shrimp tend to be used Many stocks of shrimp have been overfished. Determining interchangeably, although, technically, shrimp are which products are sustainable is made difficult by the fact distinguished from prawns by the structure of the gills. that the global shrimp market makes no distinction between In Europe (particularly the UK), Australia and other warm-water and cold-water shrimp, or between farm-raised Commonwealth countries, prawn is used more often than or wild-caught, and the confusion of common names makes shrimp, which is the more common term in North America. it difficult to know the origin of a product (e.g. imported To add further confusion, some species are marketed under shrimp is sometimes repacked as domestic product). In many different names (e.g. the circumpolar species Pandalus some countries, there is now a requirement for food items to borealis may be called pink shrimp, northern shrimp, be labelled with their country of origin. northern pink shrimp, Pacific pink shrimp or salad shrimp). Northern prawn or shrimp: These are small (maximum There is a huge and growing market for shrimp. About 40 length about 15 cm), short-lived, fast growers that produce shrimp and prawn species have commercial value. They can many young. The status of stocks is generally unknown and be categorised into three main types: wild-caught cold- subject to large natural fluctuations. In North America,

88 ffnihadivrertsrmishigh. remains invertebrates by-catch and employed, finfish are of TEDs where even and, requirements widely TED vary and quotas catch of enforcement and measures management but can significantly, that by-catch panels reduce mesh square and turtle (TEDs) include devices by-catch kilogram exclusion reduce every to for Measures discarded landed. be prawn may of by-catch of kg invertebrates; 10 and to fish as up well as turtles, including sea by-catch), of numbers global large of percent (27 high by-catch takes of and levels seabed the damages by which captured trawling, are bottom shrimp tropical Most prolific. very and shrimp: or prawn southern or Tropical by-catch be to groundfish. tends of still there but etc.) turtles, seabirds, (sea mammals, species endangered of take accidental reduced significantly have devices reduction by By-catch preferred shrimp. habitats muddy bed, and sea sandy the the damage particularly often which trawls, typically bottom are by shrimp caught northern and pink as such species hs r short-lived are These 89 • • • • • • • are: farming shrimp to and related environmental issues key social The reputation. bad their of wild-caught, because as labelled Farm- sometimes stocks. are wild shrimp of raised depletion and pollution as habitats, well other as and mangroves wetlands, of degradation and shrimp: or prawn Farmed o od rnfrdsae n interbreed. and diseases shrimp transfer wild food, with for compete that shrimp farmed of Escape the and from wild; collection through broodstock healthy of Decline in use feeds; for formulated fish of stocks wild of Depletion water; supply to aquifers of Drainage antibiotics; and chemicals waste, organic from Pollution ponds; the of water out as seeps land agricultural and groundwater of Salinization ponds; create to forests, mangrove as such habitat, ecologically-sensitive of Clearance uhpanfrigcue loss causes farming prawn Much

90 • • • • • organic. as certified sources from or of information), Sources further (see Farming Shrimp Responsible International for the Principles to according managed farms choose from prawns, those farmed For labels. organic and fairtrade environmental, credible, recognised, with shrimp/ labelled also prawns and to species, grids non-target sorting of using by-catch fisheries reduce in taken prawns choose to Try chose to generally Species continued 5 Factsheet rmteecountries. available these also from are prawns farmed non-organic as carefully, labelling check However, no antibiotics). (using or Ecuador pesticides and Vietnam in produced are These prawns tiger farmed Organically alternative. Good ranking: MBA – U.S. choice. when or in. tides, hauled and are swells they ocean large if by damaged moved be are may traps corals, and sponges glass fragile home to habitats, hard-bottom in their results although which by-catch, gear, little pot with caught only are shrimp). prawns spot prawn, (or prawn spot Pot-caught Avoid. ranking: MBA off State. stocks Washington shrimp pink of management or assessment choice, Best ranking: MBA exported. are some but coast west jordani). U.S. Oregon, from shrimp Pink/salad/cocktail alternative. Good issues. by-catch addressing and effects, habitat researching stocks, maintaining effective, been fairly has these of South management and Overall, Mexico Atlantic. of Gulf U.S. the in commercially water fisheries. warm shrimp Mexico of Gulf and Atlantic South alternative. Good ranking: MBA Atlantic. U.S. and Canada concern). for (cause Oceans. Arctic and Pacific From Atlantic, by-catch. North reduce to waters U.S. Norwegian, and in Canadian nets in fitted compulsorily are grids crevette or prawn Northern rgnsrm r odpiaiyo h U.S. the on primarily sold are shrimp Oregon ee pce fsrm r fished are shrimp of species Seven rts ouba–MArnig Best ranking: MBA – Columbia British idcuh otenSrm from Shrimp Northern Wild-caught u oeteehsbe little been has there note but . borealis) (Pandalus Pnesmonodon). (Penaeus S etfe n2007; in certified MSC B ranking: MBA C aig 3 rating: MCS (Pandalus Sorting Spot 91 • • restaurants: in demand in commonly of species groups lobster two addresses commercially factsheet both This fished artisanally. are and and depths, tropical all and at temperate and all oceans in found are species They 150 involved. about are seafood; as of popular groups are different that several crustaceans for used is ‘lobster’ name The LOBSTER • • • concern particular of Species • uclrti n hc adsel rtce iha array an with protected shells hard thick thick and a tail have muscular but claws no have These Palinuridae. lobsters water warm or shrimp). Spiny/rock involve may and method cooking the “scampi” to term refers the although scampi, or known langoustine (commonly as lobster Norway the and or lobster, American Maine the lobster, European They common water. the temperate include in found mainly and claws front and lobsters ‘true’ or Clawed Sea. China South the from shrimp mantis China and South Sea, the from shrimp wild-caught China, from recommends Kong Hong WWF problem. contributing by-catch thus the trawled, to been have to likely are States. shrimp United the into imported shrimp’, ‘Hite Avoid. ranking: MBA (avoid); wild. 5 the rating: from caught and juveniles fish, on caught depend wild farms from made pellets are on shrimp fed farmed generally addition, In the mangroves. to many led of have loss ponds farm shrimp The in Asia. shrimp southeast farmed commonly most the and warm-water shrimp, wild-caught common most the above). is (see This animals farmed organically of are purchases tiger jumbo shrimp) and or black prawn giant, as known (also prawn Tiger hc ae hmago lentv oipre farmed imported to shrimp. alternative good a them impacts, makes environmental which limiting laws to subject are farms States. United the from shrimp Farmed hs r itnuse yterlarge their by distinguished are These Homaridae. B akn:Go alternative. Good ranking: MBA Pnesmonodon). (Penaeus B akn:Avoid. ranking: MBA rmtefamilies the from avoiding rmtefamily the from r oesr any ensure to Try ..shrimp U.S. amdshrimp farmed Nephropidae These MCS

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Factsheet 5 continued

of spines. They are typically found on the seafloor in otter trawls (main method), seine nets, and baited traps tropical, semitropical and temperate waters, hiding called creels. The heavy otter and beam trawls cause among rocks, kelp and coral, and from shallow to deep considerable damage to the seabed and its communities, water. They are commonly sold just for their tails. sometimes to a depth of 30cm or more, and also re-suspend Slipper and squat lobsters, and freshwater crayfish are not sediment that smothers filter feeders and reduces the light covered in this factsheet. The latter are often farmed, available for photosynthetic organisms. The small mesh size resulting regularly in escapes that have led to invasive of the trawl fisheries results in large quantities of by-catch, populations that disrupt aquatic ecosystems and threaten including juvenile fish of commercial species such as cod, native crayfish stocks. sole, plaice, haddock, whiting, and hake, up to 70 percent of which are discarded as they are below the minimum landing Conservation issues size. This has led to concerns that some Norway lobster fisheries may be affecting the recovery of cod stocks and Clawed or true lobsters: Many traditional fishing grounds the sustainability of whiting and haddock fisheries. for popular species, such as the American or Maine lobster (Homarus americanus) in North America and the common One Norway Lobster fishery has MSC certification (see lobster (H. gammarus) in Europe are depleted. The below) and others are undergoing assessment. population status of the former is largely unknown but Spiny/rock or warm-water lobsters: The majority of spiny thought to be low, while stocks of the latter are below a lobsters in the U.S. market are from the Caribbean, Brazil quarter of their potential level in the unfished state. These and Florida. They are caught mainly in traps in shallow lobsters may live 50 years or more. Both species are caught water, but nets, pots, spears, scuba and skin diving are also in pots; in North America, the endangered North Atlantic used. Lobsters in Brazil and the Bahamas are overfished, right whale is sometimes accidentally entangled in pots. captured before they reach reproductive maturity or caught The Norway lobster Nephrops norvegicus (also known as illegally, despite the presence of regulation and management langoustine, jomfruhummer, buchstabenkrebs, cigala, Dublin schemes; the Florida fishery is well-managed. There is Bay prawn, havskräfta, kaisergranat, kaiserhummer, intensive fishing, both commercial and artisanal, for spiny keisarihummeri, karavída, nephrops, Noorse kreeft, Norway lobsters in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and many stocks prawn, Norwegischer hummer, sjøkreps) is better studied, are overfished. because of its high demand. It is fished from Iceland to the Mediterranean Sea, with most catches coming from the Species generally to choose North Sea, the waters around the UK and Ireland, and the • Trap-caught American/Maine lobster, Northeast U.S. Bay of Biscay. Markets for whole Nephrops are principally in and Canada. MBA ranking: Good choice. southern Europe, and there is significant use of tails in • Pot-caught common lobster, Europe scampi production in the UK. The status of many stocks is , provided it is unknown, but some appear to be sustainable and in some above the legal minimum landing size, is not egg-bearing cases increasing, perhaps due to decreased predation by and is not a large female. Lobster potting is the most depleted species such as cod and hake. However, stocks selective fishing method. are depleted in West and North Galicia, the Cantabrian Sea • Loch Torridon Nephrops (Norway Lobster) Creel Fishery. and North Portugal. About 30 percent of Norway lobster in This fishery in northwest Scotland, UK, uses baited the North Sea and 50-60 percent in the Bay of Biscay are creels/pots deployed on lines, and adheres to the thrown overboard, either because they are smaller than the voluntary Torridon Management Plan. Most of the catch is minimum landing size or because the market prefers larger exported to Spain. MSC certified in 2003. individuals; most are unlikely to survive. • Norway lobster - those caught using: Norway lobster live in burrows dug into soft, muddy - traditional creels that have less impact on the marine sediments on the sea floor and are fished with beam and

92 • • • • eswt otn rd,lre ehszs rescape or sizes, mesh larger grids, sorting with nets - okwr-ae ose,US rpcaught. trap U.S. lobster, Rock/warm-water recommended. lobster: rock Australia Eastern (good). 1 rating: MCS choice; Best Europe. China, and Kong, U.S. Hong the Japan, Taiwan, catch to the exported fisheries; largely Australia’s is of value total the of 20 percent about representing Australia, single- in valuable fishery most species the is This gaps. pots escape baited with using lobsters Bay harvests Shark Australia, to Western Leeuwin in Cape from located is which fishery, lobster rock Australian Western (good). 1 choice; rating: Best MCS ranking: MBA 2004; in certified restaurants. MSC to mainly 10 domestically, States; sold United are the percent and France Asia, are to lobsters exported The mainly Tehunantepec. of Gulf Mexican California the between and Mexico Northwest of coast Pacific the Mexico. California, Baja interruptus), lobster spiny California or rock Red nSweden). fisheries in some (e.g. species reduce non-target and of escape by-catch to fish juvenile allow to panels sea the or to unharmed; back catch unwanted return and trawl fisheries, than by-catch of rates lower environment, S etfe n20;MAranking: MBA 2000; in certified MSC W ogKong Hong WWF Pnlrscygnus). (Panulirus (Panulirus hsfseyi on is fishery This ..rock U.S. This 93 r ae nnt,weeb-ac a eaproblem. a be may by-catch where species nets, Some in seabed. taken the are to traps damage alive, cause sea can the pots to and returned allow be and to by-catch crabs little small have undersized that pots or traps in are caught crabs most some Although although assessment. MSC, undergoing the are by certified been crab yet No have species. fisheries particular to crabs, guidelines buying specific when than avoid rather to what on hence given fisheries, are sustainable guidelines recommend to and difficult status, is and it size thus population on species, information most little For is seafood. there in used are species crab Many CRAB • • concern particular of Species C aig cuefrconcern). for (cause 4 rating: females. MCS large or ‘berried’) (i.e. egg-bearing landing size, minimum legal the below lobster Common practices. management fishery good determine to abundance and health population about little available is information There illegally. caught or reach maturity they reproductive before captured overfished, often are and Brazil Bahamas the Honduras, Nicaragua, in Fisheries Caribbean. the from lobster Spiny/rock/warm-water choice. Best ranking: MBA assessment. scientific extensive and management attentive guidelines, strict have fisheries lobster B akn:Avoid. ranking: MBA

When buying crab, avoid the following: King crabs: There are around 40 species of king crabs, which are sometimes also known as stone crabs (not to be • Immature and undersized animals below the legal confused with the Florida stone crab). They are spider-like minimum landing sizes or egg bearing (berried) crabs; crustaceans, found offshore in deep-sea habitat that is • Crabs caught during their winter spawning or generally healthy. King crabs moult, aggregate to mate, and breeding time; brood their eggs for about a year, all traits which make them • Crabs caught in nets; vulnerable to fishing. Their abundance naturally expands and contracts. • Fresh (not previously frozen) crabs caught during the spawning season; and Snow crabs (Chionoecetes opilio): These crabs are classified as overfished in Alaska, because of their low • Crab claws, unless it is known that they have been abundance. Fishery managers have implemented rebuilding removed from the crab during processing, as claws may measures, but it is too soon to tell if they are effective. have been removed from live crabs and the rest of the Canadian Atlantic populations are considered healthy. body discarded at sea. Blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus): Also called hardshell The following species are commonly crab, softshell crab, or blue-claw crab, these crabs mature found for sale in restaurants: early and carry their eggs for a short period of time, making them more resilient to fishing pressure than some other Dungeness crabs (Cancer magister): Also called market crab species. Traditionally taken from the Chesapeake Bay crab, San Francisco crab, Pacific edible crab, and area, equal amounts now come from the Carolina coast commercial crab, these are found in shallow coastal waters and the Gulf of Mexico. Abundance varies, but many from Alaska to Mexico. Their abundance fluctuates with populations are declining due to habitat loss caused by oceanic conditions, and consequently populations are pollution and coastal development. In the Gulf of Mexico, difficult to assess. In the United States, no females can be shrimp trawlers take juvenile crabs as by-catch before they taken, and only males large enough to have mated at least have the chance to mature and reproduce. U.S. trap-caught, twice may be taken. United States and Canada trap-caught, MBA rating: Good alternative. MBA rating: Good alternative. European spider crab (Maia squinado): The largest crab in Stone crabs (Menippe mercenaria) are popular in the British waters, these crabs are caught mainly with tangle Southeast U.S. and supplied predominantly by the Florida nets, which result in more by-catch than pots. west coast crab fishery.

94 iln,Fac,Gray ogKn,Indonesia, Kong, Hong Germany, Denmark, France, Belgium, Finland, for available – Guides Seafood WWF www.seafoodchoices.com Alliance: Choices Seafood www.mbayaq.org/cr/seafoodwatch.asp Watch: Seafood Aquarium Bay Monterrey http://eng.msc.org/ Council: Stewardship Marine guide: www.fishonline.org food sea sustainable Society’s Conservation Marine Seafood: Friendly www.blueocean.org/seafood Ocean to Guide Institute Ocean Blue http://www.amcs.org.au/default2.asp?active_page_id=137 Society Conservation the Marine from Australian available – Guide Seafood Sustainable Australia’s information further of Sources chosen. be crab horseshoe and recommends Kong Hong WWF wild-caught certified from made crab Imitation whiting cod. Pacific and whiting, blue hoki, mackerel, Atka bream, threadfin mullet, striped barracuda, mackerel, include sardines, used fish Other environmentally methods. using fishing caught responsible be fish not of may kinds or other may with that mixed pollock from made paste fish lobster: or crab Imitation wild-harvested than crabs. choice mud better a is sources such from Product projects. community-managed small-scale, in in fattened pens) juveniles (with ‘ranched’ species being this increasingly but is size, population on available Little is Asia. information South and are Australia crabs in these eaten Asia, popularly and Australia Africa, of waters tropical crabs Mangrove/mud are fisheries: populations pot Well-managed Many and overfished. months. fecund winter highly the are in they mainly m, spawn 100 width. to carapace down mm waters 300 in about Found to up grow can Europe, in crab edible or Brown continued 5 Factsheet lsaploki odatraiet rbmeat. crab to alternative good a is pollock Alaska rmteSuhCiaSasol not should Sea China South the from Cne pagurus): (Cancer iepedi the in Widespread serrata): (Scylla locle uii hsi minced a is this surimi, called Also that idcuh e crab red wild-caught C recommended. MCS hs rb,found crabs, These MSC- 95 gnyItrainlCnr o ca eeomn,Canada. Development, Ocean for Agency/International Centre Fisheries Studies/Forum Pacific of Institute management. and development South fisheries the for of information Resources Pacific: Marine Nearshore (Eds). A. L. Wright, Hill, In: and 17. Chap. Lobster. Spiny 1993. C.R. Pitcher, Kenya. Nairobi, Africa, Mozambique. East/Southern and TRAFFIC Tanzania Kenya, in lobsters cucumbers, and sea seashells in trade Invertebrates: Marine Stormy for 2001. Seas Afonso. P.S. and Milledge, S.A.H. N., Marshall, Lobsters www.worldwildlife.org/aquadialogues Dialogue: Aquaculture Shrimp WWF Conservation. Nature the for for Society report Swedish Final market. Swedish the in for industry Thailand shrimp the of Investigation 1999. P. Miller cid=142&lid=735 http://www.enaca.org/modules/wfdownloads/singlefile.php? Farming: Shrimp Responsible for Principles International pp. 20 Thailand. Bangkok, (NACA). Asia-Pacific in Aquaculture Centres of Network Farming. Shrimp Responsible for Principles International 2006. FAO/NACA/UNEP/WB/WWF. http://www.ejfoundation.org/ Prawns: to Guide Consumer Foundation Justice Environmental Shrimp guides/index.cfm solutions/sustainable_fishing/sustainable_seafood/seafood_ http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/what_we_do/marine/our_ Sweden, Switzerland: Spain, Africa, South Poland, Norway, Netherlands, eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 6: Other fish

Overfishing is one of the greatest threats to the marine CITES Appendix II, which strictly regulates its environment and its wildlife. The Food and Agriculture international trade. Several other species in this trade are Organisation (FAO) reports that almost 70 percent of global also vulnerable to overfishing. marine fish stocks are overfished or depleted, and in some • Orange roughy. Orange roughy is a slow-growing, long- cases completely fished-out. This can perhaps be seen most lived fish (it can reach ages of more than a hundred years) dramatically in the North Atlantic – cod stocks in Canada’s that is very vulnerable to over-exploitation, with some Grand Banks are still nowhere near to recovering some 15 populations decimated by overfishing. It is often caught years after the collapse of the fishery during the early 1990s. by bottom-trawling, a method that damages the seabed Hotel restaurants can help by sourcing fish from responsibly and may have a significant effect on the ocean managed fisheries, and by choosing fish that are caught or ecosystem. The species is also thought to contain high farmed in a way that minimises damage to the marine levels of mercury, another good reason not to serve it. environment. One of the best-known certification schemes • American plaice (dab). Despite its name, the that aims to ensure fish are sourced sustainably is operated American plaice is also available on European menus. by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). Certified product It is a slow-maturing flatfish that is vulnerable to is marked by the scheme’s distinctive blue label. overfishing. Preferable alternatives include MSC-certified The issue of the sustainability of fish supplies is exceedingly European plaice from the Irish Sea, or Alaskan Plaice complex and constantly evolving, therefore the advice here from the Pacific. has to be general, and clearly cannot be comprehensive for • Atlantic cod. Atlantic cod has been heavily exploited for the all species currently traded. Some species may be rare in past 50 years, leading to huge population declines (around one locality and abundant elsewhere. Several organisations 90 percent). Alternatives include MSC-certified pollock, have produced ‘best fish guides’ in an attempt to rate various hake, hoki, Pacific cod, sablefish or mackerel icefish. fish species according to the sustainability of their harvest. • Atlantic halibut. Links are provided in this document to several of these The Atlantic halibut is another species guides, and local advice should be sought where possible. of flatfish that is overfished. An alternative would be MSC-certified North Pacific halibut. Species of particular concern • Black scabbardfish (espada). This strange-looking deep-sea fish is heavily fished, and therefore is perhaps • Patagonian toothfish - also known as Chilean sea bass, best avoided. Only go for mature fish (longer than 80cm) merluza negra (in Latin America) and mero (in Japan). caught by traditional fisheries. This large, slow-growing southern hemisphere species is caught by long-line fishing, some of it undoubtedly • Blue ling. This is a deep-water North Atlantic species, carried out illegally. The long-lining taking place without vulnerable to excessive trawling. mitigation measures in place is responsible for a large • Hake. Many stocks of European hake from the eastern amount of incidental by-catch of endangered seabirds Atlantic and Mediterranean are in decline through (mainly rare albatrosses and petrels), sharks and even overfishing. In the U.S., the white hake is similarly marine turtles. Of the world’s 22 species of albatross, 18 overfished. More sustainable alternatives include the are globally threatened with extinction, mainly due to silver and red hake (northeast Atlantic) and the shallow- long-line fishing. water cape hake of southern Africa. Another species, the • Humphead wrasse. A specialised market in Asia (see the southern hake, off New Zealand, is also under threat. Asian seafood factsheet) is the trade in Live Reef Food • Monkfish. European monkfish from north and Fish. One of the most sought-after species in this trade is northwestern Spain and the Portuguese coast are the humphead wrasse, large specimens of which have overfished. U.S. stocks are thought to be recovering after become rare through overfishing. The species is listed in a period of over-harvest.

96 • • • • choose to Species • • • e n luinIlnsfseyaeago choice, good a are fishery Islands Aleutian and Bering Sea the from fish and MSC-certified numbers by-catch. catch incidental manages fishery Alaskan the as cod, cod. Pacific cannot sourced. fish be handline-caught if best, are MSC- fisheries from certified mackerel net-caught or Line- Spanish. and Mackerels. fish. MSC-certified Choose sustainable. and well-managed Pollock. walleye or Alaskan sustainable. be to thought European are and populations 1960s, the in fully overfishing have from Canada recovered and States United the in populations sardines). the canned in as and, States, kippers United sild, pilchards, as sold (also Herring turtles. marine endangered of by-catch to the place reduce in measures these with as well-managed choice, are best fisheries the are Atlantic North U.S. the from swordfish swordfish handline-caught many and for Harpoon issue fisheries. an is the Mediterranean) and the Africa of North rest off mainly driftnets, illegal marine (in and turtles dolphins long-lines), (on sharks as such species, non-target of By-catch far- consequences. have reaching may removal marine excessive the their in so role ecosystem, important an play and chain food itself. hoki Swordfish. of overfishing as well as albatrosses seabirds, seals, other fur and of by-catch significant a is claims there Bird & Forest organisation New conservation the Zealand MSC, the cod by sustainable certified a Although as substitute. range Zealand New its from away Hoki. instance. stocks, for healthy from come currently of Australia coast Western northern the off source. caught you snapper which Red snappers other any ascertain of to origin try the and these – eating snapper Avoid cubera Vulnerable. the as and snapper mutton and the Caribbean – the Americas from species two classifies IUCN the Snappers. nrcn er,hk a enicesnl sold increasingly been has hoki years, recent In ayseiso npe r vrihd and overfished, are snapper of species Many hs pcaua ihaea h o fthe of top the at are fish spectacular These aiu pce,icuigcu,kn,Atlantic king, chub, including species, Various aii o sabte lentv oAtlantic to alternative better a is cod Pacific lsa olc ihre are fisheries pollock Alaskan tatcHerring Atlantic 97 guides/index.cfm solutions/sustainable_fishing/sustainable_seafood/seafood_ http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/what_we_do/marine/our_ guides: seafood sustainable WWF’s seafood: to http://www.sierraclub.bc.ca/seafood-and-oceans guide – Canada of Club Sierra www.seafoodchoices.com Alliance: Choices Seafood fish best – http://www.forestandbird.org.nz/bestfishguide/ Society guide: Protection Bird and Forest Zealand New http://www.mbayaq.org/cr/seafoodwatch.asp Watch: Seafood – Aquarium Bay Monterey http://www.msc.org/ (MSC): Council Stewardship Marine guide: www.fishonline.org food sea sustainable Society’s Conservation Marine species: fish http://www.fishbase.org/ to guide reference scientific – FishBase Seafood: Friendly www.blueocean.org/seafood Ocean to Guide Institute Ocean Blue http://seafood.audubon.org/ Guide: Lover’s Seafood Audubon’s information further of Sources • • eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While n odatraiet tatchalibut. Atlantic to alternative good well-managed a also and are stocks halibut Pacific sole. Canadian rock and U.S. and fisheries), Dover (MSC-certified include sole These plaice. American as such flatfish popular to alternatives more-sustainable offer flatfish flatfish. Various sustainable. and healthy considered (Saithe). Coley its reduce by-catch. to seabird managed has fishery this as particularly ayppltoso hsseisare species this of populations Many ubro ouain fvarious of populations of number A

Caviar, the unfertilized roe (eggs) of sturgeon and paddlefish, been internationally regulated since the late 1990s, when is one of the world’s most recognisable and luxurious concerns about their over-fishing became widespread. gourmet delicacies. Overfishing and poaching, as well as However, the illegal trade in caviar is rife, and thought to pollution, habitat loss and other environmental factors, have include links with organised crime. led to large declines in the populations of these fish, which All caviar sold in the European Union (since 2006) and all are killed in order to extract their roe. caviar imported into the United States (since 2007) has had Twenty-seven species of this ancient group of fish live in to include special non-reusable CITES labels containing both coastal and inland waters across Europe, Asia and standardized information including, for example, the species North America. Historically, the Caspian Sea—shared of fish involved and the country of origin. These CITES- between Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and labelled tins aim to ensure crime-free caviar. Note that the Turkmenistan—is home to the largest numbers and the most United States labelling requirement does not cover caviar highly prized sturgeon species. Many of these are now produced and consumed domestically, only caviar imported threatened with extinction. (or exported or re-exported) from the United States. The EU is thought to be the world’s largest consumer of Caviar varieties of particular concern caviar, with over 600 tonnes imported between 1998–2005, compared to over 300 tonnes to the United States over the • Beluga caviar – from the Beluga sturgeon (Huso huso). same period. However, large domestic markets exist in The Beluga sturgeon can reach weights of more than range states (those countries where the sturgeon are usually 2,000 kg and lengths of more than five metres (though found), which is also a contributing factor in the decline of large individuals are now rare) and live to a hundred years many sturgeons. of age. It is found primarily in the Black and Caspian Trade in sturgeon/paddlefish products, including caviar, has Seas. Beluga produces the most expensive caviar, with

98 • • • • choose to generally alternatives) (or varieties Caviar • • ser air–fo h ser rRsinsturgeon Russian or ( Ossetra the from – caviar Ossetra Seas. Caspian and Black the bordering products countries Beluga from of imports banned the has 2005, States Since United Endangered. Critically be experts to fish it two considered by assessment 2007 by a 1996 and in IUCN, Endangered The as roe. classified of was g sturgeon 100 Beluga for US$500 to up reaching prices saNrhAlni ihta rdcslarge produces that fish Atlantic North a is lumpus) ( Cyclopterus Lumpsucker The caviar. Lumpsucker Atlantic available. farmed are and salmon salmon Pacific wild from roe Both species. non-endangered from alternative roe another roe Salmon taste. similar a has alternative caviar much- sturgeon This of cheaper caviar’. variety ‘Avruga a as under including sold names, and product world the of parts many in roe. Herring concerns. population to due best avoided currently is caviar paddlefish Wild-caught sustainable product. more a offer which paddlefish underway, farmed programmes of number a now are stocks, there paddlefish wild of over-exploitation been there has historically Although resemble closely). to most (said caviar caviar Sevruga sturgeon to similar paddlefish very Asia, is and caviar Europe of sturgeons the Closely to America. related North of systems freshwater the both occur, in paddlefish of species Two kg. caviar. 80 Paddlefish to up weigh and to length up in to metres grow 2.2 can which sturgeon, Stellate the Sea species, Caspian endangered another from comes caviar ( sturgeon stellatus). Stellate the from - caviar Sevruga kg. 100 2.3 to to up up weigh of and lengths metres to grow be can to It it Endangered. considered Critically experts fish a two and by IUCN, assessment the 2007 by 1996 in was Endangered obtained as is classified it which caviars. from prized sturgeon highly Russian most The the of one still as is not expensive, although and caviar, Beluga than texture cpne gueldenstaedtii). Acipenser h hr-otsuh-fe air Sevruga caviar, sought-after third-most The ooru rneslo gsare eggs salmon orange Colourful . ern o sapplratraiet caviar to alternative popular a is roe Herring ser airi imrin firmer is caviar Ossetra Acipenser 99 e/item5684.html http://www.worldwildlife.org/what/globalmarkets/wildlifetrad FAQs caviar WWF papers/traffic_pub_cop14_14.pdf http://www.traffic.org/cites-cop- reports/traffic_species_fish24.pdf http://www.traffic.org/species- reports/traffic_species_fish23.pdf http://www.traffic.org/species- leaflets information caviar TRAFFIC http://www.fishbase.org/ species fish to guide reference scientific – FishBase information further of Sources • eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While aieNrhAeia u oual amdi at fthe Europe. of and parts States in United farmed popularly its but in America, species North rare native a sturgeon, white American the from comes three Caviar’ the ‘Transmontanus to caviars. similar Caspian very main be to said is the sturgeon) (from Siberian caviar’ ‘Baerii farmed Europe, sturgeon In wild populations. on such. pressure as the labelled ease clearly helps be Farming should which of all are — species farmed Various business. growing a is fish-farming (aquaculture) sturgeon populations, sturgeon wild ensuing of and rarity decline the With caviar. sturgeon Spain. Farmed in Lompo’ du ‘Huevas de and ‘Caviar France as in sold Lompe’ is It affordable caviar. and sturgeon tasty to a alternative being for renowned is Denmark, it in delicacy where popular a is roe This roe. of quantities

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 8: Woods for furniture and construction

The trade in timber and wood constitutes a massive global • Afzelia: This West African tree, which is used for high- trade in natural resources. Wood and timber products are quality exterior joinery, is classified as Vulnerable. used in furniture, construction, flooring and paper (in fact • American cedar: From South and Central America, this pulp products constitute by far the largest overall usage). tree, which is used in cabinet making and light Many species of tree are utilised in this production, some of construction, is Globally Threatened. which are globally threatened (particularly tropical hardwood Andoung: species) and subject to international trade restrictions. • Various African species of this tree, which is used for furniture and light construction, are Vulnerable. A number of hardwood species are categorised as threatened Balau / Selangan batu / Bangkirai. by IUCN and listed in the Convention on International Trade • Found in Southeast in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Asia, various Shorea species are used in heavy duty This affords them varying levels of protection once the construction work, and many are Globally Threatened. appropriate national legislation has been enforced. • Ebony: Various species of ebony from Asia and Africa As well as the effect on the threatened tree species are used to make items such as doorknobs, cutlery themselves, over-exploitation can have a knock-on effect on handles, musical instruments, etc. Several species are the wider environment, causing the declines of other plant globally Threatened. and animal species. Unsustainable management of forests • Keruing / Yang / Curjun: Found in Malaysia and also has social and economic implications for local people. Indonesia, this is a strong wood used in construction Despite this, when making choices as to the purchase of and for features like decking. Many species are furniture, or undertaking building improvements to the hotel, globally Threatened. there are a number of decisions that can be made to limit • Makore: This West African tree is used for joinery the environmental impact. requiring toughness. It is Endangered. • Meranti / Seraya / Lauan: These include various Hardwood species of particular concern southeast Asian Shorea species used in joinery such • Big-leaf mahogany: Big-leaf or Brazilian mahogany is as door frames, etc. Many Shorea species are one of the world’s most valuable and extensively traded globally Threatened. hardwoods. It is found in Central and South America and • Ramin: From Malaysia and Indonesia, this wood is used used to make furniture, wood panelling and musical in mouldings, as well as decorative carvings, venetian instruments. The species has been commercially blinds, panelling, picture frames and skirting boards. It is decimated throughout much of its range and is listed in globally Threatened. Appendix II of CITES, which means that countries require • Sapele: This West African tree, which is used in furniture, a permit to export it. This permit requires a scientific joinery and decorations, is globally Threatened. assessment that the trade will not be detrimental to the species’ survival. Due to the high price of the wood, Timber certification much illegal logging of this species takes place. A number of timber certification schemes, which African mahogany: • Mahogany from West Africa is independently inspect forest operations and verify that the almost as prized as its big-leaf equivalent. It is used for timber has come from well-managed forests, are now in furniture-making and various joinery elements, and is existence. These give buyers confidence when purchasing globally Threatened. timber products – those labelled as part of such a scheme • Afrormosia: This West African tree, which is used for can be purchased safe in the knowledge that good practice furniture and in joinery, is classified as Endangered. was being followed and endangered tree species were not being felled.

100 hntoia areas. rather tropical temperate, than in found are many forests these, FSC-certified Of more trade. timber international small the a of only percentage for account noted currently be forests should certified it that schemes, these of benefits the Despite forests. are certified products well-managed, their from that sourced ensure to trying now are large retailers Many (PEFC). Certification Forest of for Endorsement Programme the and Management, on Forest Standard Sustainable National Canadian the (SFI), Initiative Sustainable Forestry American North the include schemes Other This rigorous, FSC. assessments. uses letters independent that the scheme and recognised tree globally a a of is outline the – logo with FSC marked the is wood Forest Certified the (FSC). of Council that Stewardship is scheme familiar most the Probably 101 etfcto scheme). certification another from timber (or choose timber to FSC-certified is used from being wood is only forests that properly-managed ensure to way safest the products, timber non-tropical purchasing when even Therefore, some in place areas. taking protected even logging forest illegal old-growth with of affected, areas are important of number A Russian East. the Far and Europe Eastern in particularly unsustainably harvested, and managed badly are forests of these some even However, non- species. from temperate but endangered hardwoods, tropical above not the do from Zealand come New and the Australia Europe, Canada, in States, used United products wood of majority vast The species common more of use Unsustainable

102 ore ae om asv ato h lbltimber global the of part certified massive a a from forms came Paper wood source. original the as be long can as paper, certified, including wood, from made product Any Paper development. are in rattan currently and bamboo both for schemes FSC-certified. Certification is that one rattan only with currently dealing is manufacturer There years. 50 last the over dramatically declined have managed. resources sustainably rattan seldom Consequently is and at rate grow fast not very does a rattan bamboo, exported Unlike is making. Rattan furniture Africa. for and Asia in spiny, found tropical palms of climbing species 600 roughly to refers Rattan are products FSC-certified. bamboo with manufacturers deal few who a distributors only and Currently rates. growth fast due its timber to tropical to alternative as friendly marketed environmentally often an is Bamboo for etc. exported flooring, also making, is furniture bamboo much local, billion is $2 trade estimated annual the of majority commercial the and Although subsistence uses. of range large a has Bamboo Madagascar. in lemur of species three mountain and panda, gorilla, giant the as such mammals, including high-profile species, animal destruction. different forest many from support risk Bamboos at be to these thought of are Some species cycles. life the extraordinary around with bamboo many woody world, of species 1,200 about are There rattan and Bamboo forests. were first-growth they dense from since timber, harvested today’s than quality also higher are of timber has often of wood sources the Older since harvested. preferable, been is already it ways many in form. fact, antique In in timber/furniture of sources to these acceptable purchase perfectly is it However, international restrictions. by trade protected or threatened, that globally trees are from today comes often timber reclaimed and Antique furniture and antique timber reclaimed or recycled second-hand, Buying continued 8 Factsheet 103 W ue eae ud opoiie wildlife prohibited http://worldwildlife.org/buyerbeware/ to souvenirs: guide a Beware, Buyer – WWF network: http://www.traffic.org/ monitoring trade wildlife the – TRAFFIC http://www.pefc.org Certification: of Endorsement for Programme http://www.sfiprogram.org/ (SFI): Initiative Forestry Sustainable American North http://www.iucnredlist.org/ Species: Threatened of List Red IUCN types. plant these on information useful much (INBAR): has http://www.inbar.int Rattan and Bamboo for Network International _wood_guide/ Guide: Wood http://www.foe.co.uk/campaigns/biodiversity/resource/good Good – Earth the of Friends products. wood various of distributors and manufacturers on FSC-certified information has (info.fsc.org) database products FSC The http://www.fsc.org/ (FSC): Council Stewardship Forest http://www.cites.org/ CITES: http://www.certificationcanada.org/english/ Management: Forest Sustainable on Standard National Canadian information further of Sources or http://www.fscus.org/paper/ sustainable See: a source. from recycled comes that paper makes choose also to therefore it sense It to products. criteria wood-based same other the to apply as to paper important for is used it is so States production), United the in cut the annually of timber percent 25 approximately instance, (for industry eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 9: Medicinal and aromatic plants for amenities and spa products

An enormous range of plants (and animals) is used in Plant Specialist Group of IUCN, WWF, TRAFFIC and the medicines, cosmetics and perfumery. Many, particularly German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation BfN, those used in traditional and phyto medicines, are collected with support from a multi-stakeholder group. It is from the wild. If managed sustainably, collection of wild currently being tested in a variety of field projects. plants for these purposes can provide an important livelihood for people in rural areas where there may be few other ways of Species of particular concern making a living. Often, however, collection is not managed on A number of plant and animal species that are mainly in a sustainable basis, leading to deterioration of the populations international trade as perfumes, medicines or aromatics are of the species concerned (sometimes to the point where included in the CITES Appendices. Almost all are in populations are no longer viable) and loss of livelihoods and Appendix II, which means that commercial international the basis for the healthcare for many local people. trade is legal but regulated, with exporting countries having It is difficult, however, to provide clear-cut guidance on an obligation to ensure that harvest for trade is sustainable which products to avoid and which to use. This is because: (although, for most species, finished products packaged for the retail trade are exempt from CITES regulations). However • With many finished products, particularly natural for many such species there is good evidence that harvest medicines, it is commonly not possible to tell what the and trade are poorly regulated and often not sustainable. constituents are. Even where products are labelled with Some of these species, such as the Asiatic yews (Taxus their constituents, the labelling may give insufficient spp.) and the African cherry (Prunus africana), are used information, be hard to understand or be misleading – primarily by the pharmaceutical industry to produce drugs although in the last case often because rarer or more for clinical treatment and are very unlikely to be met with in a expensive constituents, which may be a cause for hotel context. Others, however, may well feature in toiletries concern, have been substituted by commoner, cheaper and cosmetics, or in general tonics that may be sold over ones, which are unlikely to be so. Often, it is not stated the counter. whether the ingredients are from cultivation or wild collection, nor from which country they originate. CITES-listed species that provide products that might be used, and that should be treated with caution include: • Even where the identity of the constituents can be ascertained, we often do not know enough to be able to ANIMALS say whether their harvest and use (if they are wild- • Musk deer (Moschus spp.), which provide natural musk collected) is sustainable or not. for use in perfumery and traditional oriental medicine. In • Some standards/guidelines exist in the fair trade, organic general, this should be avoided. and forest sectors. While some of them address wild • Saiga antelope (Saiga spp.), whose horns are used in collection to some degree, mostly they neglect the traditional oriental medicine. Best avoided. ecological aspects of sustainability, such as resource • Bears (Ursidae), whose gall bladder extract is used in assessment. However, attempts are being made to traditional oriental medicine. Best avoided. remedy this, most significantly the International Standard for Sustainable Wild Collection of Medicinal and Aromatic PLANTS Plants (ISSC-MAP). Version 1.0 of this Standard was • Spikenard (Nardostachys grandiflora), which is published in 2007, and was developed by the Medicinal used in perfumery, incense and herbal medicines,

104 105

is often overharvested. Use only if verified from a some wild aloe is harvested for processing, and care sustainable source. should be taken with products from this region to ensure • Agarwood (Aquilaria spp. and Gyrinops spp.), which is that they originate from a sustainable source. used in perfumery, is often overharvested, although some • Ginseng (Panax ginseng – only the Russian population is now comes from plantations. Use only if verified from a listed under CITES – and P. quinquefolius). This plant is sustainable source. very widely used in its pure form and as a mixture in • Kutki (Picrorhiza kurrooa), which is used in herbal tonics and herbal medicines. It originates from wild- medicines, is quite resistant to overharvest. collected (the most sought-after and often However, Picrorhiza kurrooa royle is closely related to over-harvested), ‘wood-grown’ (stock grown semi- Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora, both of which are traded naturally) and cultivated plants. The American Herbal under the same name (kutki). Today, the bulk of Products Association (www.ahpa.org) has guidelines for international trade in kutki is said to be mainly air-dried harvest. Suppliers from North America should only be rhizomes of Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora originating used if they adhere to these guidelines. from Nepal, where it is classified as Highly Vulnerable, • Hoodia (Hoodia spp.) is increasingly widely available as a although the government there recently lifted a ban on dietary supplement to promote weight loss, although its collection under strict guidelines. many earlier traded products are probably illegal. Mostly • Aloe (Aloe spp.- except Aloe vera). Aloe extract is used wild collected in southern Africa, there has been a shift to in a wide range of skin lotions and treatments. The great cultivation with government-supported schemes to majority comes from cultivated Aloe vera and is of no ensure a sustainable harvest. The last year when wild conservation concern. In Eastern and Southern Africa, collection permits were issued was 2007. Any products should eventually be labelled to say they were produced

106 oeta n pno hudawy esolicited). be always should (although opinion advice one offer than to more position a in be FAO may UNDP, as and such organisations intergovernmental of or offices NGOs field development or conservation case-by-case based a Locally on basis. judged be to such have each would However, enterprise products. the for outlets profile providing their and raising enterprises, such as for serve partners potentially valuable can Hotels providing people. of local way for a livelihoods as perfumes) and soaps oils, essential (often products plant-based of development that promote initiatives enterprise private funded small-scale are or there programmes countries, of number a things In influence positively. to opportunities be also may There ingredients. of sourcing particularly and environmental sustainability, about questions asking by to suppliers opportunity influence the have buyers environmental large-scale on but than issues, social on stronger be Such may them. policies with contracts into entering be before should assessed These businesses. their and of social impacts the environmental concerning policies own their have products suppliers natural high-profile reputable the only of use Several to suppliers. is present at approach best The the use. all might of they constituents products the all of the harvest ensure of to sustainability end-users for it practicable checked, not be simply can is laws and lists species and protected redlists national national or global regulations, CITES Although advice Practical • athe continued 9 Factsheet nonee u vi ti o scnrl nhretand harvest inadequate. on appear controls currently as trade so, be if to it unlikely avoid is but plant encountered This colorant. food a as used sanders Red documentation. CITES appropriate by accompanied in finalised. trade be international to Currently, yet has regulation this introduce to legislation the although Africa, Botswana/Namibia/South of Authorities Management the CITES with collaboration in production and harvesting from Hoodia spp. ,wihi chiefly is which santalinus), (Pterocarpus aeilotie hog controlled through obtained material Hoodia spp. utbe must 107 RFI:www.traffic.org TRAFFIC: http://www.iucn.org/themes/ssc/sgs/mpsg/ Group: Specialist Plant Medicinal IUCN http://www.floraweb.de/MAP-pro/ site: download and documentation (ISSC-MAP), Plants Aromatic and of Medicinal Collection Wild Sustainable for Standard International elsewhere: useful http://www.frlht.org.in/ be country, could that that to experience relevance with most but of NGO Indian an Traditions – Health (FRLHT) Local of Revitalisation the for Foundation www.cites.org CITES: www.ahpa.org Association: Products Herbal American information further of Sources eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Part II: Taking action in the hotel Part I: Biodiversity and Hotels TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 10: Live animals

There are many species that are illegal to purchase and keep Many seahorse species are classified as globally in live animal displays. Some will be illegal under national Threatened, and the keeping of these species should legislation, whilst international trade in some species may be be avoided. in contravention of CITES. • Giant clams and corals: Indonesia and Fiji are the largest suppliers of live coral. Over-harvesting of corals is a GLOBAL AQUARIUM TRADE problem in some areas, and an illegal coral trade exists. The majority of the global aquarium trade is legitimate. As for giant clams, although wild populations are in decline, However, an illegal trade in these often-expensive marine farmed specimens are becoming increasingly available. creatures does exist. It is difficult to identify many of the All giant clams and hard corals are listed in CITES species involved, and buyers should pay particular attention Appendix II, which means their international trade is to the following groups of species, and make sure that they regulated and permitted only when the country of origin can are buying from reputable suppliers who can vouch for their determine and demonstrate adherence to a quota, such stock’s provenance. The Marine Aquarium Council (MAC) that the trade doesn’t impact negatively on wild populations. provides a certification system that provides the industry with a set of internationally approved environmental and quality AVIARIES standards. Where possible, try to use suppliers who are part Wild birds: Millions of birds, both wild and captive-bred, are of this scheme. traded legally within the cage and aviary market. However, • Tropical fish: More than 500 million live tropical fish are there are import bans on wild-caught species into the United traded each year as part of the aquarium trade, largely States and Europe, and many bird species are listed in the from the Pacific and Asia. The most traded marine CITES Appendices, meaning their international trade is aquarium fish are the damselfishes (Pomacentridae), regulated or not permitted, depending which Appendix they surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae), wrasses (Labridae), gobies are listed in. These species include: (Gobiidae) and angelfishes (Pomacanthidae). Indonesia • Almost all species of parrot, including parakeets, and the Philippines supply more than half of the global amazons, cockatoos and macaws. The only species not marine ornamental fish trade. listed are rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis), • Seahorses: With their fascinating biology and unusual budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulates), cockatiel appearance and behaviour, seahorses are popular for (Nymphicus hollandicus) and rose-ringed parakeet aquariums. However, they are difficult to keep, and (Psittacula krameri); generally require experience and attention in order for • Many species of raptors, or birds of prey; them to thrive. The large demand for seahorses for • Turacos, colourful fruit-eating birds from Africa; traditional medicine and the pet trade, and various environmental factors, have led to the serious decline of • Toucans, the unmistakeable large-billed birds from South many seahorse species. Most seahorses kept in aquaria and Central America; are taken from the wild, putting further pressure on these • Cranes; and populations. In November 2002, CITES included all • Many species that are regarded as globally Threatened, seahorse species in Appendix II, meaning any i.e. appear on the IUCN Red List. international trade is strictly regulated and requires the appropriate CITES documentation. In addition, many Despite existing legislation, there is still a lucrative illegal bird countries have stronger domestic measures in relation to trade. Consequently, if purchasing birds for an aviary, try to the seahorse trade (see the Project Seahorse website for only source birds that are known to be captive-bred and further information, avoid purchasing globally threatened species (see http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/natlisting.html). http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/species/).

108 http://www.cites.org/eng/app/appendices.shtml species: listed – CITES http://www.cites.org/ CITES: http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/species/ species factsheets: bird with threatened globally of list International, BirdLife de-use/factsheets/ http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/tra guidelines: import/export wildlife Australian information further of Sources Madagascar. native their (and from country onwards) the into these smuggled in illegally trade many international with illegal animals, the for hub major acted a Thailand as that found survey TRAFFIC recent For a Asia. example, in particularly many illegally, traded with animals concern, particular these a of is trade pet and the turtles freshwater for tortoises in trade the The than birds. regulated wild less in is trade and huge, is trade reptile live The REPTILES 109 idietaei h U http://www.eu-wildlifetrade.org/ EU: the in trade Wildlife http://www.fws.gov/permits/faqs/FaqA.shtml etc.: FAQs, permits, http://www.fws.gov/permits/ – Service Wildlife and Fish US network: http://www.traffic.org/ monitoring trade wildlife the – TRAFFIC http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/ Seahorse: Project http://www.aquariumcouncil.org/ Council: Aquarium Marine http://www.iucnredlist.org/ Species: Threatened of List Red IUCN http://importdetails.defra.gov.uk/ search: rules import UK – DEFRA eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 11: Wildlife-based souvenirs

Certain souvenirs and fashion items that could potentially be FUR stocked in hotel shops may contain mammal and bird International trade in items made using the skins or fur of products such as ivory, fur or feathers. In addition to the the world’s wild cats, including tigers, jaguars, leopards, more obvious products made from threatened animals, there ocelots, margays and leopard cats is either strictly regulated are also a large number of souvenirs and other items made or, in many cases, prohibited under CITES and under from protected reptiles, fish and plants. Many of these national legislation. Fur from other threatened animal products are illegal, because the species they are made species is often illegal too, although the situation can be from are protected under national or international laws (such quite complex. For example, under EU law, import into the as CITES). Consequently, trade in many of these species is EU of pelts and manufactured goods of certain wild animal restricted or prohibited, often with tough penalties for species (e.g. beaver, musk rat, sable) originating in countries breaching these laws. Other products may require the which catch them by means of leghold traps or trapping importer (in the case of travellers, the person who methods that do not meet international humane trapping purchased the item) to have the correct import permits. standards is not allowed. The EU also looks set to ban fur In addition, the importation into the United States, for products made from farmed domestic cats and dogs in 2008. example, of any wildlife and their parts or products is prohibited if the animal was captured, taken, shipped or WILD BIRDS possessed in any manner violating the laws of the country in In most instances, travellers cannot purchase a wild bird to which it was taken. take back home with them to another country. However, some species of wild-caught birds can be imported into certain IVORY PRODUCTS countries (e.g. the United States if they are part of federally- Ivory-based items might include: approved management plans for the sustainable use of the species) and are accompanied by the correct paperwork. • Ivory jewellery; Of more relevance to the hotel shop, however, is that • Carvings or figurines made from elephant ivory; feathers or parts of protected species of birds (including • Carved whale teeth (scrimshaw); and eggs) cannot be imported into many countries. This applies • Carved items (such as dagger handles) to stuffed specimens and decorative objects that include made from rhino horn. feathers. An additional problem is that it is difficult to tell whether feathers are from protected species. Items made from elephant tusks (ivory of both Asian and African elephants) is normally illegal. However, there are SHAHTOOSH AND OTHER WOOLS exceptions to this rule: in Namibia, trade in individually marked and certified ‘ekipas’ incorporated in finished Shahtoosh is the wool of the Chiru or Tibetan antelope. The jewellery is legal, as is trade in ivory carvings in Zimbabwe— animals are killed to obtain the wool, and the demand led to provided it is non-commercial in both cases. Note that trade a massive decline in the species’ wild population. Chiru were in items made from other elephant parts (hides, hair, leather listed in Appendix I of CITES in 1979, and items made from goods) is allowed, under certain provisos, in Botswana, shahtoosh wool are illegal. A legal alternative to shahtoosh Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. is pashmina, a type of cashmere wool from a Himalayan mountain goat also renowned for the quality of its wool. All international trade in rhino horns is prohibited under CITES (with the exception of a few trophy hunted animals Vicuña, a wild south America camel, has a similarly-prized from Swaziland and South Africa). coat. The species suffered massive population declines last century because animals were killed for their wool, but following conservation measures, numbers have recovered well and

110 ihrrsrce rntalwd one utrle r often are butterflies Mounted allowed. not or is restricted them either in trade commercial consequently CITES and the Appendices, in listed are swallowtails) and family (birdwings the in butterflies of species Many BUTTERFLIES avoided. be should containing musk’ as ‘natural labelled perfumes encountered, Although be Russia. to and unlikely China an from imposed musk has on EU ban the import 1999, Since rife. is musk products poached deer in trade is illegal trade the limited However, (meaning permissible). parts other in trade) II international Appendix (preventing and range CITES their of of I parts Appendix many in in listed are deer East Musk traditional medicine. in Asian desirable highly strong- is a that contains scent that smelling sac musk (several a Russia has eastern occur) and species Asia of deer musk male The avoided. be should ingredients their other in or species, these, protected list that products Any bears. black Asiatic rhinoceros and tigers, including species, animal products threatened contain from medicines Asian traditional of number A PERFUME AND PRODUCTS MEDICINAL permitted. is items wool Vicuña certified killed. in than trade rather result, shorn a be As to up rounded now are animals (Lepidoptera) Papilionidae 111 prpit aeln,adcsoessol eavsdas advised be should the customers bear and should labelling, sale appropriate for or Caviar caviar, sturgeon. sevruga farmed or from ossetra caviar cover not Black does and ban Caspian The the Seas. from caviar beluga the wild banned of Government import U.S. personal the for 2005 country in home However, their use. into back 250g) of to amounts (up small caviar bring caviar. to the allowed of generally origin are of Travellers country and non-reusable source a the bear detailing to label has now labelling caviar universal sturgeon a all to system: agreed 2000 in meeting CITES a at governments Consequently, by syndicates. controlled crime largely organised be a to also thought is trade, there illegal trade, huge legitimate the as per well dollars As of kilogram). (thousands prices retail which high Sea), extremely Caspian fetches the in the largely from (found caviar sturgeon Beluga Beluga is prized and highly sturgeon most the The of paddlefish. (eggs) roe unfertilized the is Caviar CAVIAR species. protected of insects/arachnids mounted guidelines to similar apply that Note species. non-CITES products even butterfly – import to attempting when certainly permits require almost are will Travellers butterflies law. all national countries, under some protected In items. such avoid of to sale safer the probably is in it difficulties species, the individual to identifying due but items, decorative as sold

to their probable customs allowance. A number of cheaper PLANTS caviar substitutes from non-threatened species (such as Certain wild plants, particularly orchids, cacti and cycads, Avruga, made from herring roe) are also available. both as dried specimens and as live plants, are protected under CITES and require the appropriate documentation to CORAL be internationally traded. Many plant species are also banned Many corals are prized for the beautiful colours and shapes by countries to stop the spread of plant diseases, or because of their skeletons (corals are not plants, but marine animals the species involved is known to be invasive. All imports of closely related to sea anemones and jellyfish). Coral plants must therefore be pest-, soil- and disease-free. skeletons are widely sold in coastal resorts as decorative souvenirs, or as part of other products, such as jewellery. RAMIN There is also a large trade in live specimens for aquariums. Ramin is a tropical lowland hardwood from southeast Asia, Some coral species are classified as threatened and listed in prized for its fine grain and easy wood-working qualities. CITES, and coral reefs are an increasingly threatened The tree is a key plant in the survival of orang-utans and is habitat. The sale of coral products may hasten the decline of now listed by CITES. As such, permits are required to import these delicate ecosystems, thereby endangering the tourist it. Ramin is commonly used in items such as snooker cues, trade that comes to visit these spectacular natural wonders. blinds, picture frames and tool handles, as well as furniture. This, coupled with the complication of identifying the coral Where possible, when sourcing wood products, retailers species involved, means the sale of coral souvenirs is should attempt to find out which woods are featured, and inadvisable. For more information on identifying corals see: whether they came from a sustainable source. There are a www.arkive.org/coral/Coral/identifying_corals.html number of sustainable timber certification programmes, including the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): MARINE TURTLE PRODUCTS http://www.fsc.org There are seven species of marine turtle, and all are listed in Appendix I of CITES, meaning international trade is REPTILE SKIN prohibited. There are also numerous national laws protecting Some reptiles (e.g. various crocodilian species) are used to these species. Marine turtle products that are sometimes supply leather for fashion items such as shoes, wallets, offered illegally for sale include: handbags and watchbands. Many manufacturers work with • Jewellery (bracelets are especially prevalent); skins from sustainably managed reptile species such as the American alligator, but some snakes, crocodiles and lizards • Trinkets (such as cigarette lighter covers) are protected and may be subject to trade restrictions. In made from tortoiseshell; addition to CITES regulations, some countries also have • Whole shells; and strict import or export controls on certain species – for • Stuffed whole mounted turtle specimens. instance goods made from native reptile skins would be illegal in India, and the EU has a number of regulations Note that trade in many species of freshwater turtles and pertaining to the import of reptile skin products. tortoises is also prohibited. Due to the difficulty in identifying the different species involved, the stocking of all turtle/tortoise Suppliers should therefore check before buying and products should be avoided unless the source is known to stocking reptile products that they have come from a be legitimate (e.g. a licensed supplier of farmed animals). legitimate source. Theoretically, luxury reptile-skin products

112 nuesahl rdcscm rmssanbesok of species. stocks non-protected sustainable from come products to seashell essential ensure therefore without is prohibited It be documentation. would CITES export appropriate for of curio sale a the as product), shell seafood the popular a of is by-product conch a (the largely fishing is its shell to the due Although 2003, decline. in rapid listed was Caribbean, the rose-pink from beautiful shellfish a conch, queen them. the in example, trade For international regulating thereby CITES II, by Appendix listed in are species as Some sold items. be tourist to decorative quantities great in harvested are Seashells SEASHELLS http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/ Seahorse site: Project web the see information, further best For is avoided. products, as seahorse curios, containing seahorse medicines dried as of well sale the result, a dead As whole seahorses. for declarations import requires EU the trade seahorse and the http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/natlisting.html), to (see: relation in laws additional have own countries their many addition, In not populations. will wild activities threaten such that a evidence if provide only can but country allowed, is thereby Trade II, trade. Appendix international to regulating seahorse of species 2002, all November added in CITES Consequently, decline. serious in thought be are to species many many of in Numbers ingredients medicines. as traditional used and aquariums, as for exported animals curios, live dried as sold popularly are Seahorses SEAHORSES items. legitimate purchasing reassured are be they can that customers that so regulations local look into should managers Shop documentation. the export by proper accompanied items unless such officials having customs of by risk confiscated the face always into country back own items their such taking tourists the However, from sources. taken wild) hatchlings or (eggs legitimate ‘ranched’ from or come captive-bred should shoes) and handbags as (such continued 11 Factsheet 113 W ue eae ud opoiie wildlife prohibited http://worldwildlife.org/buyerbeware/ to souvenirs: guide a Beware, Buyer – WWF http://www.eu-wildlifetrade.org/ EU: the in trade Wildlife etc.: FAQs, permits, http://www.fws.gov/permits/ – Service Wildlife and Fish US network: http://www.traffic.org/ monitoring trade wildlife the – TRAFFIC http://www.iucnredlist.org/ Species: Threatened of List Red IUCN http://www.fsc.org (FSC): Council Stewardship Forest http://importdetails.defra.gov.uk/ search: rules import UK – DEFRA http://www.cites.org/ CITES: de-use/factsheets/ http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/publications/tra guidelines: import/export wildlife Australian information further of Sources legislation. national under protected also be are to species likely threatened such and prohibited, sawfish is all rostrums of export of legislation, I current Appendix Under in CITES. listed exception) one (with critically and are endangered sawfishes all however, souvenirs, as sometimes sold are sawfishes on (‘rostrums’) snouts peculiar saw-like The export. for the require documentation therefore CITES would appropriate shark white great shark). a whale of the Teeth and non- shark two basking (plus the CITES species, in toothed listed are and sawfish shark of white species great all The industry. shark-fin the targeted for through fishing or by-catch as declining either are over-fishing, shark through of species Many resorts world. coastal the many around in souvenirs common mounted are or jaws, pendants, shark or necklaces into made teeth Shark TEETH SHARK eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 12: Horticultural plants

There are two main conservation issues in the use of corms and tubers (geophytes); cycads; orchids; ‘air-plants’ horticultural plants: use of plants from the wild, and use of (Tillandsia spp.); and tree-ferns. Some of these are included potentially invasive species. in the Appendices of CITES, although very few are included in Appendix I, which means that all commercial international USE OF PLANTS FROM THE WILD trade is banned.

The vast majority of plants in horticulture are nursery-grown • Cacti and succulents: Large or very large cacti and stock, and their use has no direct impact on wild succulents used in landscaping may sometimes be wild- populations. In most circumstances, all plants used both in collected. In general, however, even large specimens of landscaping and in indoor decoration will be artificially the most commonly encountered plants, such as agaves, propagated. There are exceptions, however: in some groups yuccas, nolinas, adeniums (desert rose), cereoid cacti of plants, wild-collected specimens may appear in the and opuntias (prickly pears – but see below), are horticultural trade, in a few cases in significant numbers. extremely likely to be nursery-grown. It is always worth Sometimes, collection of plants for the horticultural trade checking plants in the following groups, which are listed may have a negative impact on wild populations or may in the CITES Appendices: aloes; alluaudias and didiereas have been carried out illegally, so that care should be (large succulents from Madagascar in the family exercised when using these species. Didiereaceae); cacti (particularly very large barrel cacti such as Echinocactus and Ferocactus species, and Native species saguaros, Carnegia gigantea); succulent Euphorbias; Paradoxically, use of native plants in landscaping, which is ocotillos (Fouquieria); and pachypodiums. Most species in general a positive thing, may increase the chances that in these groups are included in CITES Appendix II. A few wild plants are being used. This is because it is often species are in CITES Appendix I and banned from cheaper to take native plants from the wild than to international trade, but these are very unlikely to be propagate them in nurseries, particularly if they are species encountered. If in any doubt about legality or source, avoid. that are not widely cultivated. Legislation protecting wild • Bulbs, corms and tubers: Forms that are likely to be plants varies greatly from country to country and is often encountered and that may come from wild stock include weak, and plants on private land are very often not snake-lilies or jack-in-the pulpit (Arisaema spp.); protected at all, although there may be specific regulations cyclamen (small Cyclamen species, not florists’ protecting some threatened species. cyclamen); snowdrops (Galanthus spp.); blue-bells If you are planning to use native plants in landscaping, try to (Hyacinthoides spp.); autumn daffodils (Sternbergia spp.); ensure that they have been artificially propagated, or that and wake-robins (Trillium spp.). Of these, cyclamen, they have been collected legally and that they come from a snowdrops and autumn daffodils are listed in CITES sustainable source. While it may not be easy to ensure the Appendix II, so that international commercial trade is latter, the best way is to find a supplier whom you trust. A regulated but not banned. If these are bought, they few countries, such as the UK, have voluntary codes of should either be artificially propagated, or should have conduct for using native plants (see reference below) but been imported in conformity with CITES regulations. The these are not widespread. safest approach is to buy bulbs labelled as of cultivated origin. Although such labelling is not mandatory, it is Choosing plants for the hotel garden widely used by Dutch flower bulb growers, who dominate global supplies. Groups where wild plants may appear in the horticultural trade more frequently than average (both as native plants • Cycads: Most cultivated cycads are of one species, and as imports) include: cacti and other succulents; bulbs, Cycas revoluta. Others that are quite commonly grown in

114 115

the tropics include Stangeria eriopus, Dioon, Zamia and in the tropics, wild-collected native orchids may well be Macrozamia species. These are not collected from the sold in quite large quantities and often collected without wild. Some other cycads may be wild-collected, mostly controls. These should be avoided. for sale in their country of origin, and some are highly • Air-plants: Air-plants or Spanish moss (Tillandsia spp.) threatened. The following, all of which are included in may be collected from the wild or grown in semi-wild CITES Appendix I, should be avoided unless assurances conditions. Seven species are listed in CITES Appendix II, can be obtained that they are artificially propagated: but are unlikely to be encountered. No significant Cycas beddomei; all Ceratozamia, Chigua and conservation problems have been identified regarding the Encephalartos species; and Microcycas calocoma. trade in air-plants. Orchids: • Only orchids that are sold as species, rather • Tree-ferns: Most large tree-ferns have been collected than as hybrids or named varieties, may be a problem. from the wild or from semi-wild areas. The trade is Wild-collected orchids are unlikely to be commonly generally legal and has not been shown to cause encountered, as imports for horticulture (most such significant conservation problems. specimens are aimed at specialised collectors). However,

116 hte h lnsi usinhv enietfe as identified been have question in plants the whether determine to (www.gisp.org) website Programme Species Invasive Global the through and (www.issg.org/database/) database on species out invasive carried global be the should searches be and should caution, area with an done to plants cultivated new of Introduction scoparius Cytisus junceum, japonica (Fallopia knotweed (Opuntia pears prickly dulcis), (Hovenia cherry Japanese ), terebinthifolius (Schinus peppertree japonica (Lonicera honeysuckle (Ligustrum), Japanese privets communis), (Ricinus plant oil castor montana include: native be Lantana are general they in where should areas that outside and avoided contexts of variety wide invasives a as in identified been have that ornamentals Terrestrial molesta salvinia (Salvinia giant crassipes), (Eichhornia avoid hyacinth to water Plants include possible. wherever used be aquatic should native species and invasives, becoming to are prone plants particularly Aquatic exceptions. some are birds. there However, and butterflies as such animals food native good for are plants species such often and cause harm, to environmental unlikely is species serious these cause Using not problems. do them of extremely most is and plants well-established cultivated of range almost wide realistic: a be everywhere, to unlikely in is area this the However, in had question. invasive that be plants to only not or demonstrated species been native only grow to approach be precautionary would most The become not. might which species and which invasive predict to easy it species, is invasive nor potentially or or invasive definitive of no lists are exhaustive There the introduced. in is conditions it the where on place also but reproduces) and it adaptability way its the (particularly invasive biology become own to its plant on a depends of capacity have The number so. a done indeed already – biodiversity to weeds threats serious potential become and to capacity the their have outside range ornamentals natural as grown are that plants Many SPECIES INVASIVE POTENTIALLY OF USE continued 12 Factsheet ioapigra (Mimosa mimosa giant , ei azedarach (Melia chinaberry (Tamarix), tamarisk ), incai flava (Limnocharis cabbage water and ) ,adbom (notably brooms and ), and eit monspessulana Genista ,kduvn (Pueraria vine kudzu ), spp. ,Brazilian ), ,Japanese ), Spartium ). ). ), 117 ito lnsrgltdi nentoa rd a efound be can trade www.cites.org. international at: in regulated plants of list A http://www.kew.org/data/cites.html CITES): plant by of covererd overview groups an (including manual Plants and CITES • • • elsewhere: applied be can codes these The in plants. principles non-native of of use codes the voluntary regarding are practice there Germany, and UK the In information further of Sources avoided. be so general been in have should that identified Plants world. the in anywhere invasives eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While net.de/download/Empfehlung-Invasive-Arten.pdf; www.g- invasives: to of plants spread horticultural prevent of help use for practice of code German plants: native of and use www.floralocale.org; the on practice of code UK www.defra.gov.uk/planth/publicat/hortcop.pdf; help to invasives: plants of horticultural spread of prevent use for practice of code UK

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends TRAFFIC RECOMMENDS Factsheet 13: Activities and excursions

5’ mammals, rare birds and many other creatures. However, although various voluntary certification programmes are in place around the world, no global standard exists for tour operators. As a result, hotel tour desks should try to ascertain whether the operator adheres to the following guidelines. Do they:

• Employ knowledgeable guides, where possible from the local area? © Stephen DAWSON / WWF-Canon • Ensure that their tours cause minimum disruption and disturbance to the animals involved (as well as limit the impact on the wider local environment and to local cultures and communities)? • Limit the numbers of participating visitors and the time they interact with/observe the featured wildlife? • Provide direct financial or in-kind benefits for conservation and local people? • Adhere to local/international regulations in relation to interaction with protected species? • Have proper licenses for their activities? Where possible, it is also worth asking any relevant Many tourist activities increasingly involve interaction with the local/international conservation organisations if they have natural world, as more people become interested in any advice or experience with the operators in question. conservation issues, or wish to experience the thrill of seeing Although most eco-tour operators act responsibly, there are unfamiliar wildlife close-up. Consequently, many local always some that do not – hopefully conservationists will be companies have sprung up offering eco-tourism and hunting aware of which these are. and fishing opportunities to appeal to visitors. Indeed, many hotel guests may have chosen to stay in a particular hotel WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING/SWIMMING simply to be close to a particular wildlife-interaction opportunity. In addition to following the above general wildlife watching As a result, many of these kinds of activities will be on offer guidelines, whale and dolphin watching (and the observance through the hotel or resort’s tour desk, or local operators will of other marine animals such as sharks or seals) is worthy of wish to advertise their services around the hotel. When further comment. choosing which local partners to work with (or when setting Many countries have national codes of conduct in place to up your own tours), a number of points should be make sure that contact with whales and dolphins causes considered in relation to the effect on local wildlife and the minimum disturbance to the animals. Tour companies sustainability of any activities. should abide by these rules, and where no local legislation exists, ideally should voluntarily adopt similar practices WILDLIFE WATCHING (such as only approaching in vessels to a certain distance, Many types of wildlife are tourist attractions in their own not touching the animals when swimming, etc.). right. In various parts of the world, there are popular excursions to watch whales, marine turtles, the African ‘Big

118 • • • • • questions: following the satisfactorily answer can endorses hunting it local services any whose that operators ensure to try should etc. hotel elephants, The cats, big bears, as such animals pursuit large the of to referring when hunting, trophy big-game as or known hunting, the also of is body it the Consequently from animal). prepared game item an for (i.e. one) value foreign trophy a its particularly an tourist, of a hunting by the (generally as animal defined broadly be can hunting Sport HUNTING SPORT • • • • to: clients their In help licensed. should and they qualified addition, fully be should operators dive Any SNORKELLING AND DIVING eurdb utr frinhneswl eur CITES require will hunters (foreign paperwork hunters necessary by the required all of aware company the Is animals)? hunted population of the status of indicator an are trophies – good-sized requirements national usually are size (these trophy regulations minimum species-specific by abide they Do etc.? and regulations, quotas hunting hunting other national by abide operator the Does staff? hunting professional, fully-trained with licensed, properly company the Is legality. its despite activity, not an may such hotel recommend a species, the that about of concerns status to conservation species due a but hunt country, to particular legal a be in may country? it the however, in cases, concerned some species In the hunt to legal it Is requirements. diving and equipment of conditions to relation in applied strictly are considerations diving safety when that ensure consider and to issues safety on advice Provide and it; can appreciate they better so environment underwater the are; about they Learn as animals and fish reef and shells, seabed live the leave on life damaging and life; touching marine fragile Avoid other and corals on stand or rest and not distance safe do a from wildlife view they that sure making impact, without reefs) coral as (such wildlife marine Observe 119 eomnain ntepout icse here. discussed products the and on regulations recommendations international and local are check Hoteliers to then. in advised since press changed to have going may of it time 2008, the at correct be was to factsheet believed this in presented information the While http://www.traffic.org/general-reports/traffic_pub_gen8.pdf Community Development African Southern the in Hunting International: Sport TRAFFIC from report following the context), see African an (in hunting sport on information further For http://assets.panda.org/downloads/guidelinesen.pdf ecotourism: community-based for guidelines WWF's /story_details.php?select=58 watching http://www.wdcs.org/connect/whale_watch whale guidelines: – Society Conservation Dolphin and Whale http://www.fws.gov/permits/faqs/FaqA.shtml etc.: FAQs, permits, http://www.fws.gov/permits/; – Service Wildlife and Fish US http://www.iucnredlist.org/ Species: Threatened of List Red IUCN widely): more applied be http://www.iaato.org/wildlife.html can and useful issues a the provide of also overview they wildlife, marine Antarctic to these apply (although guidelines watching wildlife marine IAATO information further of Sources avoided. species key of overfishing and obeyed, catches be to should regard in Any regulations fish). or freshwater quotas of local/international types various coastal for many also in (and activity areas tourist popular a is fishing Sport FISHING SPORT • • oa omnt n h osraino oa wildlife? local of conservation the and the community benefit local operation hunting company’s the does How a association? with) hunting affiliated professional (or national of recognised member a operator hunting the Is service? as their documents of these part with tourists provide to Do help trophy)? they a exporting if example, for documentation,

Part III: TRAFFIC Recommends Appendix 1: Communicating with a hotel’s internal and external stakeholders

Communication is a vital part of any biodiversity strategy, both communicating about efforts to integrate biodiversity into to explain to staff and suppliers what the strategy is and why hotel management. Make sure that your staff: it’s important, and to help guests and other stakeholders - know the basic facts about biodiversity and the understand the hotel’s actions and what they can do to help. contributions the hotel makes; Such communication can be integrated into your hotel’s overall communications and marketing practices. This appendix - show genuine interest and concern for biodiversity; and reviews the key components of an effective biodiversity - implement the practices and spirit of the biodiversity communications strategy, targeting your hotel’s internal and strategy in performing their duties. external stakeholders. To motivate staff, it can help to have a box in staff areas for Any communications strategy should be guided by two key “The Idea of the Week” or to have a yearly biodiversity award principles, which will help you determine the scope and for the best staff contribution. content of your communications: Targeting specific groups for biodiversity communications • Results first, communicate later: In general, it is better to communicate very little, or in a very low-key way, when first Although it is not the core business of hotels to influence the starting to integrate biodiversity practices into management knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of their clients towards strategies, in order to have some results to share before biodiversity, the way a hotel conducts its business communicating extensively with any stakeholders. communicates a lot about its motivations and principles. To add extra value to each person’s experience, you may wish to Internal communication before external communication: • develop a client communication strategy, tailoring the It is important to use internal communication strategies to objectives and messages to a variety of target groups (see make sure that your staff is “on board” before explicitly Table A1 below).

Table A1: Segmentation of clients for biodiversity communication

Direct choice Indirect choice

Buyers (non-guests)

• Tour operators Indirect • Travel agencies experience • Conference and event companies • Businesses

Buyers (guests) Guests (non–buyers)

Direct • Individual leisure tourists • Package tourists experience • Transient business travellers • Conference participants • Business travellers

120 Communicating with non-guest buyers guest rooms. An exhibition of local natural products, extra attention to the garden, and participation in local festivals Once you have substantially integrated biodiversity into your that feature aspects of biodiversity may also positively management strategies and consider your contribution to influence the attitude of guests; and conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity as part of your value proposition, you may wish to communicate this to your • Influencing the behaviour of clients, for example by posting non-guest buyers, including tour operators, travel agencies, visible evidence and testimony that your shops and spas do conference and event companies, and other businesses. The not offer for sale souvenirs, clothing or other products that objectives of this communication would include: are derived from endangered species or species forbidden for trade by CITES, or by showing that your tour desk only • Increasing the knowledge of this target group about offers responsible recreational activities and subcontracts conservation and sustainable use of local and global with companies that can guide diving, fishing, surfing or biodiversity, for example by providing information about the wildlife watching activities in a responsible way. added value of being close to a national park or using certified products; There are three main strategies that hotels can use for • Contributing to a more positive attitude among non-guest communicating about biodiversity actions. You may choose to buyers about conservation and the sustainable use of use a single one of these strategies, or combine elements of all biodiversity, for example by providing photos of the hotel three. In all cases, it is important to realize that biodiversity and its surroundings showing the hotel garden, exhibitions awareness raising and learning is only credible and effective of local products, children’s activities and other biodiversity- when a hotel also makes a genuine effort to practice what it related topics; and preaches. Serious contradictions between business practices and the message embodied in external communications may • Influencing the destination choices of non-guest buyers by cause problems. Guest communication strategies include: linking your efforts in the field of biodiversity to special groups, such as student excursion groups, governmental, • Invest in awareness raising and informal learning: Using academic or NGO conferences, guests of the Ministry of this strategy, you would communicate about your Environment, and others. Testimonials from previous guests biodiversity actions as a separate topic, rather than as a part can be used for this purpose. of other technical management interventions. For example, decorating the lobby with unique indigenous plants or an Communicating with hotel guests aquarium with species representative of inland or coastal In addition to communicating about your biodiversity strategy waters may informally educate clients about local to non-guest buyers, you should also develop a biodiversity, especially if the plant pots and the aquarium communication strategy for guests. The objectives of this have small explanatory signs. The choice of magazines on strategy would include: the reading table in the lobby may include a variety of nature magazines (prioritise magazines and newspapers that are • Increasing the knowledge of guests about conservation and produced sustainably), while the reception area may offer sustainable use of local and global biodiversity, for example clients a tray with local apples or other fruits, accompanied through the choice of magazines you offer in the lobby, the by a small sign reading: ‘Nature welcomes you to our hotel. choice of certified food products on your menu, the choice Please help yourself, and thank you for your wise use of of films and games in your video programme and the kind of nature.’ The paintings and photos on the walls in public activities offered for children; areas and guest rooms may all be selected around the • Contributing to a positive attitude towards conservation and theme of biodiversity to raise awareness about the richness sustainable use of biodiversity among guests, for example of local biodiversity. The advertisements in the elevator may by the choice of decorative plants, live animals and include an invitation to visit a national park, local zoo or decoration in public areas, and plants, photos or paintings in botanical garden. The in-room video programme might offer nature films. The usual sign about re-using towels in the

121 bathroom may refer to the impact on local biodiversity, e.g. establishment in town and hears, ‘Oh you are in staying in a ‘Thank you for contributing to the preservation of the pristine hotel that really cares for our biodiversity here,’ that beauty of our lagoon.’ An exhibition of locally produced message has a lot of positive impact. To create such ‘natural’ products, may provide clients with exposure to the positive messages, it is important to regularly engage in wide variety of resources offered by nature in the vicinity of informal and formal communication with key opinion leaders the hotel. If you have many children among your clients, you in the local community. Hotels may also give a might offer special activities, developed and organised in communication role to local or international conservation partnership with local organisations, for children to discover organisations by entering into special partnerships. For biodiversity in and around the hotel, or offer a supply of example, photos of local bird species in guest rooms may biodiversity computer games and videos for kids. be from a competition among local photographers • Do good and let your guests know it: Under this strategy, organised by the local society for the protection of birds and communication supports the various actions to integrate sponsored by the hotel. A local festival may feature in its biodiversity in the hotel management cycle, and caring for street parade special aspects of local biodiversity sponsored biodiversity is highlighted as part of the unique selling points by the hotel. You may also wish to be associated with a local of the hotel. This may involve revisiting your position nature film festival or a music festival with compositions statement for corporate communications, or, where inspired by nature. biodiversity is part of your hotel’s core brand value, Developing effective biodiversity messages and means of association with a specific species or resource that is then communication used in your corporate communications. Some hotels might introduce a special category of ‘biodiversity rooms’ – with Formulating effective messages requires proper knowledge of tailored greenery, decoration, magazines, videos and snacks the issue, as well as a clear understanding of the knowledge, in the refrigerator – from which a percentage of the price attitudes or behaviour of your target group. It is important to goes to a local or international conservation organisation. make your message interesting and compelling to the target Other ways to communicate about biodiversity actions audience. Although conservation is important, it isn't always might include a sign in the hotel shop informing clients that interesting for non-experts. Developing communication all souvenirs in the shop are ‘CITES-proof’ and will not lead messages is both an analytical and a creative process, and to problems with customs officers on departure or arrival, or thinking creatively is possible only when there is a clear short explanations on the menu in the restaurant noting that picture of the current situation and the changes to be only products with an eco-label are used in food production. accomplished. A brainstorming session can be a good way to explore creative message ideas and pre-test any proposed • Do good and let others tell your guests: This communication strategies. communications strategy focuses on the use of intermediaries. A hotel that integrates biodiversity into its In general, hotel managers should be able to phrase key management may choose to itself communicate in a very messages about the importance of biodiversity to their staff, to low-key or minimal way, while instead focusing on offering suppliers, clients and others. These messages should be in opportunities for others to communicate about its actions. simple language and should answer questions such as ‘What is Customers may be pleased to see in local newspapers or on biodiversity?’ and ‘Why bother to protect it?’ local TV that your hotel is contributing to biodiversity While the most effective way to communicate about a conservation or engaging with local organisations or the biodiversity strategy is for management and staff to ‘practice agriculture or fishing communities. Good relations with the what they preach’ in terms of the way the hotel is run and mass media are a precondition for such an approach. In operated on a day-to-day basis, there are many other ways to general, creating good word of mouth messages is an communicate this message, including signs on trees in the effective means to have others tell guests about your garden, pots with decorative plants, or an extra line in the biodiversity efforts. When a guest visits another menu or on the list of products in the spa. The internet is a

122 valuable source for special means of communication to get means of communication? across a biodiversity message. Possible resources include: • Media costs: What are the costs to publish in newspapers • Interpretation sign boards for garden and grounds: and advertise on radio and TV? http://www.snh.org.uk/wwo/interpretation/index.html • Organisational costs: What are the costs of office supplies, • Biodiversity computer games for kids: mailings, telephone calls, copying, etc.? http://countdown2010.net/games/ • ‘Safety budget’: How much should be set aside for • Videos about biodiversity: http://www.arkive.org/ unexpected costs? • Videos about sustainable development: http://www.tve.org/mp7/search.cfm

Monitoring and evaluating your communications strategies

It is important to monitor and evaluate your biodiversity communications strategy through regular customer satisfaction surveys and other means of tracking customer value, such as electronic monitoring of video or menu choices, or the number of requests for special excursions, children’s activities or other biodiversity-related offerings. Monitoring and evaluation will be most effective if a baseline study of knowledge, attitudes and practices among the target audiences is conducted before the communications strategy begins, to provide a basis for comparison. In addition, appropriate success indicators should be identified when the communication objectives are first formulated, to increase the accuracy and effectiveness of the evaluation.

Preparing a realistic and achievable communications budget

As part of the development of a biodiversity strategy, you should decide on the role and approach of communication and estimate the costs of a communication strategy. It is better to start small rather than fail because of a lack of funds; quality, time and money are mutually dependent parts of communication. When calculating the communication budget, you should consider the following factors:

• Personnel: How many employees need to be involved and how much time do they have to work on the project? Is it necessary to hire external consultants, organisations and experts, and, if so, how much will this cost? • Material costs: What are the costs to design and produce the various means of communication? • Distribution costs: What are the costs to distribute these

123 Appendix 2: Working with partners in the destination

Hotels can take many actions themselves to help preserve biodiversity management. By demonstrating your own biodiversity, but there are cases where effective actions may be successful internal biodiversity actions, your hotel can help to limited by factors that are outside the control of any individual influence public authorities to make biodiversity conservation hotel. For example, a destination’s policies on the protection of and sustainable use a higher priority in their planning and the environment and biodiversity, including protected areas, management of a destination. The following are some of the and its approach to the planning and operation of infrastructure ways that public authorities can contribute to conservation. (e.g. new development areas, waste handling and management, water use, storm water management, etc.) all Protect biodiversity from the impacts of tourism development have impacts on biodiversity and are of concern to hotels. and activities by:

This appendix describes the ways that public authorities, • Undertaking positive planning to identify space and community groups and non-governmental organisations locations for new developments that will contribute to (NGOs) can support biodiversity conservation and sustainable sustainable tourism, protect biodiversity and take into use in destinations, and how hotels can work in partnership account predicted changes in conditions, such as the with these stakeholders to promote biodiversity conservation. effects of climate change; • Developing and enforcing regulations to ensure that damage How community organisations and NGOs can to biodiversity is minimised when new tourism support biodiversity conservation and sustainable developments and infrastructure are constructed; use in a destination • Establishing systems for visitor management to control Local organisations work on a variety of issues, including visitor numbers and behaviour, for example to prevent community development and biodiversity conservation, and physical damage, wildlife disturbance or littering; and can be a valuable interface between hotels and local communities. These organisations can contribute to • Designating and maintaining conservation areas. biodiversity conservation and sustainable use in a variety of Support biodiversity conservation and the maintenance ways, including: of high-quality habitats and ecosystems as tourism • Raising awareness about biodiversity in local communities; resources by:

• Promoting more sustainable production and • Improving information and interpretation, including developing harvesting practices; events programmes and training local people as guides; • Encouraging and managing biodiversity conservation • Preparing an overall biodiversity plan for the destination that activities; and integrates actions by hotels and other businesses, as well as • Developing sustainable local sources for supplies of some those of national and local conservation agencies and NGOs; products, such as vegetables and fruit, by working with local • Undertaking biodiversity conservation and restoration farmers and community groups. projects at specific sites; and

How public authorities can support conservation and • Raising revenues for conservation from tourism, including sustainable use in a destination through the use of admission charges and encouraging voluntary donations. While local organisations may be considered the more obvious choices for partnerships on biodiversity, public authorities have Encourage and support hotels and other businesses in taking significant influence over issues that affect biodiversity, and biodiversity actions by: can be valuable allies in any biodiversity conservation efforts. Public authorities have a major influence over most aspects of • Providing hotels and other businesses with support to help a destination, from the types of development they encourage them introduce biodiversity actions, including: and where it is built, to infrastructure, community links and

124 - Training courses and technical advice; - Good-quality guiding, where possible involving local people; - Guidance manuals supplemented by relevant local information; - Interpretative events; - Incentives and financial support for biodiversity actions, - Visitor centres, where appropriate, containing creative such as subsidies and technical support for conservation interpretative facilities; and activities; and - Relevant information in leaflets, on signs, etc. - Extending and sharing knowledge and good practice for biodiversity conservation. Setting up partnerships • Assisting hotels and other businesses to develop By setting up partnerships with public authorities, community partnerships with other organisations and community groups and associations, hotels can become involved in groups to support local biodiversity conservation and to biodiversity actions that are of benefit to the entire destination. undertake actions to protect biodiversity in the destination. To establish a new partnership, you should start by asking how working together for biodiversity protection could help each Promote the use by hotels of local products linked to partner in achieving their objectives. Each partner should be sustainable use of biodiversity by: prepared to discuss ideas for projects that could be carried out in a partnership, to explain why these projects are needed, how • Helping local communities benefit from biodiversity by much they would cost, and what their benefits would be. helping them to establish activities and enterprises based on conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, for The decision to set up a partnership usually implies a example small businesses that can supply hotels with commitment. This commitment means there may be formal sustainably produced vegetables and fruit or offer agreements developed and signed, there may be financial or sustainable tourism activities; and other obligations involved, and the new relationship can mean changes in the way each organisation works. For example, • Working with hotels to understand their needs for quantity when a hotel takes the initiative to have special “biodiversity and quality of products that can be produced locally, and rooms,” this is often done in partnership with a conservation using this information to increase the suitability of local organisation. The hotel also can enter into a partnership with a supplies for hotels. local association to delegate the development and Raising awareness of biodiversity among visitors, businesses implementation of special “edu-tainment” activities for hotel and local communities by: guests and their children, such as games, bird watching, gardening etc. • Setting up awareness-raising campaigns to encourage Some of the key factors that make partnerships and support protection of biodiversity in the destination; activities effective include: • Providing local communities, schools and businesses • Identifying key and reliable representatives of main with information about biodiversity conservation and stakeholders that should be involved in developing a sustainable use; partnership. This is particularly relevant when working with • Ensuring effective local information delivery and indigenous peoples organisations; interpretation; • Defining clear roles and responsibilities, including on sharing • Highlighting biodiversity resources in the destination, for resources and accountability of actions; example by producing maps and leaflets, and installing • Ensuring that all organisations involved, including the hotel, signs to provide information and interpretation; and benefit from working together, giving an incentive for them • Encouraging responsible visitor behaviour and awareness of all to participate; the need to protect biodiversity in the destination, including by provision of:

125 • Involving partners at an early stage, so that they can - Web searches; contribute their ideas and help with planning of activities; - Subscribing to and scanning newspapers, magazines and • Working though existing networks that your hotel may newsletters (i.e. hard copy and/or electronic versions); already be associated with; - Collecting project documents and reports, brochures and • Choosing projects that are realistic and achievable in relation educational materials; to the resources of the partners and organisations who are - Visiting institutions, associations and local initiatives to working together, and are relevant to their own objectives; get to know their work; • Selecting activities and projects where results are easily - Attending conferences and biodiversity-related events; visible to all who are involved, which are realistic and - Conducting informal meetings with colleagues and peers achievable, and have strong leadership and wide community (lunch-time discussions, recreational hours, etc.); support; and - Holding regular meetings with associations; and • Acknowledging in all communications the contributions and support from all partners. - Checking calendars of events.

There are many ways that you can begin to make links with • Communicating about your hotel’s biodiversity initiatives: groups and organisations with which you can build Once your hotel is genuinely integrating biodiversity into partnerships for conservation, including: management strategies, it is important to inform local stakeholders about these efforts. This can be done through • Networking: Through networking, hotels and their potential emails, letters, phone calls, short reports or articles, partners can exchange information and establish personal newsletters, informational meetings and presentations. connections. Networks increasingly are seen as playing an • Consulting on specific issues: A hotel does not necessarily important role in the way problems are solved, organisations have all the knowledge to integrate biodiversity into its are run and the degree to which individuals achieve their management systems. In many cases, local conservation goals. There are various forms of networking, including organisations or communities can advise you on topics such tracking, informing, consulting, supporting, collaborating as which fish species to choose for a biodiversity-friendly and partnering (in order of increasing mutual engagement). menu, which plant species to use in order to integrate local • Tracking initiatives and organisations: Tracking allows a biodiversity into your garden and public areas, or the hotel to know what biodiversity initiatives are occurring at selection of magazines in the lobby. the local level, what biodiversity conservation or awareness- • Collaborating on conservation initiatives: Your hotel also raising activities are being undertaken by national and can collaborate with other partners on conservation international associations, universities, natural history activities or events, for example to celebrate Earth Day, museums, etc., and who the key contacts are and how to International Biodiversity Day, World Wetland Day or World reach them. One of the advantages of tracking what is Tourism Day, or in cleaning up a beach, coral reef or happening, building relations with the various actors wetland. You might also choose to sponsor an exhibition in interested in a cause, and engaging stakeholders in a the local natural history or science museum, or an proactive way, is that it can allow you to coordinate Environmental Film Festival. During these events, your hotel activities, reduce duplication and support many people who can have its own biodiversity programme or host a can be engaged in working constructively with your hotel. programme jointly with other organisations. These people may include representatives of protected areas, zoos, botanical gardens, local communities, schools, government agencies, universities, conservation associations and other stakeholders. There are a number of different ways to track biodiversity activities, including:

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