A Local conservation activist says young people can help save endangered species, such as humphead wrasse and the great white shark, by enhancing their knowledge of the issue and influencing their parents. Clarus Chu Ping-shing, assistant conservation officer at WWF Hong Kong, is attending the 13th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites) of Wild Fauna and Flora in Bangkok. He is accompanied by Samuel Lee Kwok-hung, programme officer at TRAFFIC East Asia - a network that monitors wildlife trade around the world. Six endangered species related to Hong Kong - the humphead wrasse, the great white shark, yellow-crested cockatoo, Asian fresh-water turtles, desert-living cistanche and agarwood - are among 50 animals and plants that will come under the spotlight at the meeting in the Thai capital. Mr Chu, who expects trade regulations regarding these species to be tightened, said teenagers have a role to play. 'People like to eat the humphead wrasse and shark's fin soup, or collect jaws of the great white sharks because they are expensive. It is a symbol of a luxurious lifestyle,' Mr Chu said. 'If young people knew how dangerous the situation is for these species, they could influence their parents and relatives to stop consuming them. 'Take freshwater turtles as another example. Many people keep them as pets, but actually you need a licence to own one. If young people know about any illegal trading of this species, they should report it to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department or the Customs Department.' Yellow-crested cockatoos - a critically endangered species - were originally found in Indonesia. Some of the birds migrated to Hong Kong during the second world war and there are about 60 to 100 birds living here now. 'You can see some at Hong Kong Park. We are lucky to have them here and I hope people can appreciate that and not disturb them,' Mr Chu added. 'There are various types of medicine in Hong Kong that contain the desert-living cistanche or agarwood. If you have a choice, don't buy these products. 'Wildlife products are part of our lives. Unfortunately, many species are vulnerable to over-exploitation. Sustainable use is, therefore, very important. 'In the long run, it is vital to get the support of the major users to develop feasible resource management plans and adjust demand.' Mr Chu also urged students to participate in conservation activities like the education programme run by WWF Hong Kong. 'Knowledge is important. It will help young people make the right decisions,' he said. 'And, in future, we can expect to live in a better world.' Turn to page 6 for double-page pullout on endangered species. To find out more about conservation, visit www.wwf.org.hk and www.traffic.org
