Introduction 

The concept of a wildlife economy is increasingly recognised as a means to reconcile conservation efforts with economic development. This approach focuses on leveraging the sustainable use of wildlife and natural resources to generate economic benefits while preserving ecosystems. During a recent panel discussion, experts from various fields explored the integration of the wildlife economy into conservation strategies, delving into its potential, challenges, and ethical considerations. 

Understanding the wildlife economy 

The wildlife economy is grounded in the principle of sustainable use, defined as the legal and ethical management of natural resources to ensure their longevity. Francis Vorhies highlighted the Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly targets 5 and 9, which emphasise sustainable harvesting and trade, providing environmental, economic, and social benefits. This notion underscores that sustainable use is not antithetical to conservation but is a pathway to achieving it. 

Eugene Lapointe and Harbhajan Singh Pabla stressed the intertwined relationship between poverty and conservation. They argued that poverty often exacerbates environmental degradation. By creating economic value from wildlife, local communities are incentivised to protect and manage these resources responsibly, thus breaking the cycle of poverty-driven destruction. 

Wildlife economy in the Indian context 

India presents unique challenges and opportunities for implementing a wildlife economy. With its high human population density and cultural reverence for wildlife, India's approach to conservation has traditionally been protectionist. However, this has sometimes led to conflicts between humans and wildlife, particularly in rural areas where crop damage, livestock predation, and man-killing/man-eating by wild animals are common. 

Pabla and Karnasingh Ghorpade pointed out that restrictive policies have often hindered the development of wildlife-based economies. For instance, hunting and the trade of wildlife products are heavily regulated, leaving tourism as one of the few avenues for economic gain. Even tourism, as Pabla noted, often benefits only a select few, such as hotel owners and tour operators, rather than the affected local communities. 

Challenges in policy and perception 

The panellists agreed that overcoming deeply ingrained narratives and bureaucratic inertia is critical. Karnasingh emphasised the need for legislative reforms and a shift in public opinion to enable sustainable hunting and other wildlife economies. This involves addressing the ethical concerns of animal rights organisations and ensuring that commercialisation does not lead to overexploitation. 

Moreover, the problem of corruption and weak governance, as noted by Michael ’t Sas Rolfes and Prashant Singh, poses significant risks to implementing sustainable use models in India. Transparent and locally tailored systems are essential to mitigate these risks and ensure equitable benefit-sharing. 

Potential pathways forward 

  • Sustainable use models: Several panellists advocated for controlled hunting and culling programmes as part of a wildlife economy. These practices, if well regulated, can reduce human-wildlife conflicts and generate revenue. For example, Pabla highlighted that sustainable use of crop-raiding species like wild boars and blue bulls could generate significant income for affected communities. 
  • Tourism diversification: high-end photographic safaris and eco-tourism were identified as underutilised opportunities. These models, successfully implemented in parts of Africa, could provide substantial revenue while minimising ecological footprints. Karnasingh shared insights into how private reserves and exclusive safaris have contributed to conservation and local economies. 
  • Community-based resource management: incorporating local communities as primary stakeholders ensures equitable distribution of benefits. Deborah Vorhies stressed the importance of engaging communities in sustainable harvesting of plants and other resources, supported by certification systems to guarantee fair practices and sustainability (for example, FairWild). 
  • Holistic value chains: A comprehensive approach to wildlife and plant economies, integrating multiple value chains such as honey production, medicinal plant harvesting, and sustainable timber, can create resilient economic systems. Examples from Sundarbans’ honey production and Sterculia gum harvesting underscore the need for fair profit-sharing mechanisms. 
  • Ethical and cultural considerations: India's cultural context, where wildlife is often seen as sacred, requires careful handling. Lapointe and others emphasised that promoting the wildlife economy as a tool for conservation rather than exploitation is essential. Policymakers can address ethical concerns and build broader acceptance by demonstrating that sustainable use can lead to increased wildlife populations and healthier ecosystems. 

Conclusion 

The wildlife economy offers a promising avenue to align conservation goals with economic development, particularly in biodiversity-rich but resource-constrained regions like India. While challenges such as corruption, regulatory hurdles, and ethical opposition persist, innovative models and community-centric approaches provide a pathway forward. By fostering a holistic understanding of wildlife’s economic and ecological value, nations can ensure that their natural heritage thrives for generations to come. 

Author and webinar facilitator: Mathen ‘Rajeev’ Mathew, Wildlife Consultant and Vice President Asian Affairs, IWMC World Conservation Trust

  • Mathen ‘Rajeev’ Mathew