How to Save Animals & Stop People From Killing Them

"In the end, we conserve only what we love. We will love only what we understand. We will understand only what we are taught." That quote is from a speech that environmentalist Baba Dioum gave to the general assembly to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Though he said it in 1968, the principles of the quote remain timeless. In order to save animals and stop people from killing them, there must be a combination of inspiration, awareness and education.

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn all that you can about the historical and cultural reasons behind the killing of the animals you are trying to protect. Research the root causes of the problem and come up with solutions for each aspect of the issue, from every angle you can uncover. Read books, talk to people, do local volunteer work in the area, and research information online.

      In Africa, for example, endangered wildlife that is protected is routinely killed by locals and used as a source of protein. In order to find a solution to the problem, alternative methods of protein can be introduced through education and outreach programs. This creates a win-win solution by solving two problems at once and contributing to the stability of the wildlife population and food resources.

      Systematically learn about the root of the problems first, then come up with creative solutions in order to eliminate the problem at hand. In this way, a problem is not an intangible, overwhelming thing that can not be stopped. Instead, you break up the problem into manageable parts, each one having a solution.

    • 2

      Educate people about alternatives. After you've done your research and armed yourself with facts, you can begin to educate others and inspire them into action. Palm oil, for example is routinely cultivated in tropical rainforest areas by large companies all over the world. Palm oil is an ingredient used in everything from cookies and cakes to packaged chips.

      The problem is, the cultivation of palm oil comes at the expense of orangutans and other wild animals along with flora and fauna. People can not contribute towards ending an issue unless they are educated about it.

      The Jane Goodall Foundation started a grassroots educational program for youth whereby children can get involved in local issues such as the killing of wildlife for bushmeat among other things. From a young age, children can learn about the issues affecting primate and habitat loss. You can start a Roots and Shoots program in your area too!

    • 3

      Take action and spread the word. Social media isn't good just for finding out what your favorite celebrity is doing. Twitter and Facebook have the capacity to save a species!

      When the international environmental organization Greenpeace issued a call to action through social networking sites, people listened. And so did Nestle, one of the biggest targets of the campaign. As part of their social media campaign, people dressed in Orangutan suits and held up signs saying "Give us a break." Nestle's initial use of palm oil in their products was destroying rain forests in the name of making a profit. After the campaign, Nestle agreed to only source palm oil responsibly. The campaign is proof in the power of a united voice, persistence, and taking action on something you believe strongly in. If you are inspired about your own cause to save animals, the Internet is a great place to start a campaign!