The Canadian Wildlife Act was passed in the 1960s, allowing for the creation, management and protection of national wildlife areas. This framework of local communities as the first line of defense (FloD) to combat wildlife trafficking (known as “illegal wildlife trade (IWT)”) offers avenues for significant participation by Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The Endangered Wildlife Recovery (RENEW) initiative was launched with the support of Canada's Council of Wildlife Ministers, to inform the public about progress made in protecting endangered species. The demand for luxury products from wild animals, such as caviar, is one of the main drivers of illegal trade in pickled sturgeon roe.
The Endangered Species Act was passed to help prevent the disappearance of wildlife species in Canada, ensure the recovery of wildlife species that are extirpated, endangered, or threatened as a result of human activity, and manage species of special interest to prevent them from becoming endangered or threatened. The Wildlife Area Regulations were modernized to better protect the priority habitats required for the conservation of migratory birds, endangered species and other wild animals in Canada. Many countries in Southern Africa support the sustainable use of wildlife in conservation projects, as this would provide incentives to local stakeholders to protect wildlife. Below are several case studies that show successful wildlife trade projects that led to a reduction in illegal wildlife trade and, at the same time, supported IPLCs. More than 40 years after its entry into force, the Regulation currently designates 55 national wildlife areas across Canada that provide approximately 1 million hectares of habitat for wildlife species. Wildlife authorities have special judicial powers, including the right to impose fines and detain those suspected of wildlife crimes (Aryal et al.).
The Scott Islands National Marine Wildlife Area became the first National Marine Wildlife Area established under Canada's Wildlife Act. The Canadian Wildlife Act was amended to include all terrestrial species of flora and fauna and all species found within 200 nautical miles of the Canadian coast and constituted the first parliamentary authority for the creation of marine protected areas in Canada. The Committee on the Status of Canada's Endangered Wildlife was created to provide independent advice to the Minister of the Environment on the status of endangered wildlife species. It is a pioneering initiative to conserve wildlife in Canada by launching fundamental research in support of wildlife management, introducing a land acquisition process for a system of national wildlife areas and a national wetland preservation program focused on prairies. In order to motivate people to take part in Canadian wildlife campaigns, various incentives are used. These include financial incentives such as grants and subsidies; educational incentives such as workshops and seminars; and non-financial incentives such as recognition awards and public recognition.
Financial incentives are often used to encourage local communities to participate in conservation projects by providing grants or subsidies for activities such as habitat restoration or protection. Educational incentives are also used to increase public awareness about conservation issues by providing workshops and seminars on topics such as sustainable use of resources or protection of endangered species. Non-financial incentives are also used to encourage participation in conservation projects. These include recognition awards for individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to conservation efforts. Public recognition is also an important incentive for those who have made significant contributions to conservation efforts.
This can be done through media campaigns or other forms of public recognition. In conclusion, various incentives are used to encourage participation in Canadian wildlife campaigns. These include financial incentives such as grants and subsidies; educational incentives such as workshops and seminars; and non-financial incentives such as recognition awards and public recognition.
