On May 1, 2023, China implemented the revised Wildlife Protection Law, marking a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to safeguard its rich biodiversity. The new law introduces stricter regulations on wildlife conservation and offers clearer guidelines on the management of captive-bred wildlife.
The revisions have sparked considerable interest among scholars and environmentalists. According to Professor Yang Zhaoxia from Beijing Forestry University, the law emphasizes classified and hierarchical management of artificially bred wild animals. “This modification is strict when it should be strict and tolerant when it is necessary,” Yang explained. “It aligns with the principle of differentiated management of classified policies and represents an advancement of the legal system.”
The law supports scientific institutions in breeding wild animals for species protection purposes. Wild animals and their products included in the national list will be specially marked if they obtain a captive breeding license according to the annual production quota approved by wildlife protection departments. “This is conducive to encouraging the development and growth of the wildlife breeding industry,” Yang added.
One of the key principles of the revised law is the combination of key protection and universal protection. It aims to include all types of wild animals with conservation value within the scope of legal protection. Yang emphasized the need to protect other wild animals outside the national list by formulating regulations and restricting large-scale use.
The revised law also provides clarity on what constitutes illegal activities. For instance, Article 31 prohibits the consumption of nationally protected wild animals, nationally protected terrestrial wild animals with important ecological, scientific, and social values, and other terrestrial wild animals. This means that actions like a tourist processing a hare into food could be illegal.
Regarding hunting activities, Article 23 stipulates that hunters must strictly adhere to the specifics of their hunting licenses, including types, quantities, locations, tools, methods, and time periods. After hunting, they are required to report their results to the issuing wildlife protection department.
The updated Wildlife Protection Law reflects China’s commitment to enhancing wildlife conservation while balancing the needs of ecological protection and sustainable use. It encourages responsible breeding practices and aims to strengthen the management of wildlife resources across the country.
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What are the differences in the revised Wildlife Protection Law?
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