Turtle victory

Issue 

Turtle victory

Greenpeace has welcomed the Japanese government's May 22 announcement that it will stop importing shell from the endangered hawksbill turtle. Japan has been the major market for hawksbill turtle products.

Japan has offered to phase out its turtle shell imports over three years and drop its reservations against the listing of the hawksbill under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.

Under the CITES, any country can file a reservation when it refuses to recognise a ban in international trade of a particular species.

Greenpeace is now urging Japan to drop its reservations on other sea animals, including six species of whales. Japan has filed the largest number of reservations of any country in the world. n

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.