Challenges and perspectives on tackling illegal or unsustainable wildlife trade

Illegal or unsustainable wildlife trade (IUWT) currently presents one of the most high-profile conservation challenges. There is no “one-size-fits-all” strategy, and a variety of disciplines and actors are needed for any counteractive approach to work effectively. Here, we detail common challenges faced when tackling IUWT, and we describe some available tools and technologies to curb and track IUWT (e.g. bans, quotas, protected areas, certification, captive-breeding and propagation, education and awareness). We discuss gaps to be filled in regulation, enforcement, engagement and knowledge about wildlife trade, and propose practical solutions to regulate and curb IUWT, paving the road for immediate action.CSF and PC are supported by Koneen Saatio. SK acknowledges the support of the DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Invasion Biology (CIB) and Stellenbosch University and the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). TQM is supported by the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Wildlife Conservation Network, and the British Federation of Women Graduates. OCS and AT are supported by the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions (Project PO1-I-002). RD is supported by ESRC grant number R/162561 & ERC grant number 694995. Study sponsors had no role or influence in the study design; in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data; in the writing of the report; and in the decision to submit the paper for publication.