African Rhino Conservation - Interacting Influences

Conserving terrestrial megafauna presents distinct challenges to policymakers. Despite decades of evolving regulatory measures, wild rhinoceros populations remain threatened by illegal killing to acquire rhino horn, a valuable commodity in East Asian markets. In Africa, rhino conservation performance has varied with geography and over time. 

This research draws on institutional economic theories to seek plausible explanations for such variable conservation outcomes. Such theories suggest that institutional variables such as property rights profoundly influence human behaviour, leading to hypotheses we test using comparative institutional analytic methods.  

Influences on rhino conservation success

Our inquiry affirms that blanket trade restrictions do not account for local conservation success and that other institutional factors appear more relevant. We find that positive overall conservation outcomes correlate with greater institutional diversity within countries, notably those that enable non-state actors to play a meaningful role in rhino management.

Our research further suggests that strengthening institutions through decentralisation is a sensible conservation strategy for rhinos. However, a specific case study of the economics of white rhino ownership in South Africa reveals that this approach is not considered a panacea for conservation as it raises concerns over potential domestication. 

Key takeaways

1. Challenges in Rhino Conservation

   Despite years of evolving regulatory measures, rhinos are still threatened by illegal hunting for their horn which is a high-value commodity, especially in East Asia 

2. Institutional Factors

   Institutional variables, such as property rights, play a significant role in conservation success, with evidence suggesting decentralized governance as a positive factor 

3. Historical Background

   Rhino populations have faced challenges including habitat loss and poaching. While some species have nearly gone extinct, others have seen notable recovery efforts 

4. Economic and Market Forces

   High market prices for rhino horn have exacerbated poaching issues. Conservation expenses for monitoring and security are significant 

5. Differences in Conservation Models

   The North American Model, focusing on state ownership and prohibition of wildlife commerce, contrasts with Southern African models that incorporate private ownership and market solutions 

6. Role of Decentralisation

   Decentralisation, including the involvement of non-state actors, has led to better conservation outcomes for rhinos in countries like South Africa and Namibia 

7. Effect of Trade Restrictions

   While some trade restrictions have had positive impacts (e.g., 1993 bans in consumer countries), overall evidence for their effectiveness is weak compared to other factors 

8. Private Landowners' Role

   Private landowners and custodians play a critical role in rhino conservation, with many supporting the legalisation of rhino horn trade to offset high security costs.  

9. Impact of Centralisation

   Centralisation policies, often involving militarised enforcement, have had mixed results. They can lead to resistance and continued poaching in rural communities  

Recommendations

The study concludes with policy recommendations - notably, to avoid recentralisation and continue to support diverse institutional arrangements that elevate the economic value of conservation efforts. Future policies should incorporate decentralised strategies for optimal rhino conservation

Additional materials

Supplementary data to this article can be found online at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolecon.2024.108123.