World Elephant Day: Nepal Joins Global Efforts to Protect Majestic Giants

Kathmandu, August 12, 2023: Nepal joined the worldwide community today in celebrating World Elephant Day, a day focused on preserving these magnificent beings. People throughout Nepal came together to acknowledge the challenges faced by elephants, especially the endangered African and Asian species. They confront threats such as habitat loss, poaching, human-elephant conflict, and climate change.

The origin of World Elephant Day dates back to 2011 when Canadian filmmakers Patricia Sims and Michael Clark from Canazwest Pictures, along with Sivaporn Dardarananda of the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation in Thailand, devised the idea. Upon its global launch on August 12, 2012, over 65 wildlife organizations and countless individuals united to protect elephants.

From a Nepalese standpoint, ivory poaching remains a deeply troubling issue. The attraction of ivory tusks promotes an illegal market resulting in the loss of roughly 20,000 elephants each year globally. The demand for items like ivory trinkets, carvings, and even unproven medicinal remedies perpetuates this dark cycle. Human activities like farming, logging, mining, and urban extension contribute to the decline of elephant habitats and promote human-elephant conflicts.

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts within Nepal. Approximately 415,000 African and 50,000 Asian elephants remain in the wild; both species are classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 

As crucial guardians of the ecosystem and vital contributors to seed dispersal, waterhole creation, and landscape modification, elephants are essential for ecological balance. Besides their ecological importance, elephants display remarkable intelligence and complex social bonds & communication systems.

Enthusiastically supporting the cause within Nepal are various activities aligned with World Elephant Day. A tree plantation drive at Mechi Riverbanks in Jhapa district demonstrates their respect for these incredible creatures. Collaborations with Ueno Zoo in Japan raise funds and awareness, while ZSL's Nepal Elephant Project highlights Nepal's dedication to promoting coexistence and elephant-friendly practices through manuals and community partnerships.

The elephant population in Nepal, made up of 255 to 265 wild elephants and about 150 domestic Asian elephants, showcases the nation's biodiversity. Recent studies by conservationist Dr. Ashok Ram reveal a possible increase in wild elephant numbers reaching around 400. Despite this promise, challenges still exist such as habitat loss, human-elephant conflicts, and climate change.

World Elephant Day is not only for appreciation but also to motivate people to recognize the beauty, intelligence, and importance of these creatures. Sharing knowledge and advocating for both captive and wild elephants can garner support for efforts in anti-poaching, habitat restoration, community education, elephant sanctuaries, and ethical tourism. Let us stand together as a beacon of hope for future generations by taking action today.