How can CITES protect endangered species if it only regulates international trade? Do you think this is enough to protect endangered species? Explain.

CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) is an international agreement between governments that aims to ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. By regulating the trade of endangered species, CITES helps to protect them from over-exploitation.

One way CITES contributes to the protection of endangered species is by classifying species into various protection categories, called Appendices, which determine the level of protection they receive. Species listed in Appendix I are the most endangered and are generally prohibited from commercial international trade. Meanwhile, Appendix II contains species that may not be currently threatened with extinction but could become so without regulation. Appendix III lists species that are protected in at least one country and require international cooperation to control trade. CITES also requires countries to issue permits for the import and export of protected species, ensuring that only legal and sustainable trade can take place. These permits help authorities monitor and control the movement of these species across borders.

While CITES plays a crucial role in regulating international trade, the effectiveness of the convention depends on factors such as implementation and enforcement by participating countries, awareness among the public, and the collaboration of different stakeholders. Illegal trade in endangered species can still occur, especially when there is a high demand for certain animals and plants. Moreover, the protection offered by CITES deals primarily with international trade, while other factors, such as habitat loss, climate change, and local hunting, can also contribute to the endangerment of species.

In my opinion, CITES is an essential tool in protecting endangered species by managing international trade, raising awareness, and promoting collaboration among countries. However, CITES alone is not enough to ensure the protection of all endangered species. To effectively address the many threats faced by endangered species, we need a comprehensive approach that includes habitat conservation, local community engagement, and other national and international initiatives tackling environmental challenges. Thus, while CITES plays a vital role in species conservation effort, it is important to recognize that additional measures are needed to support its work and address various threats to endangered species.