In the face of falling elephant populations around the world, it’s easy to feel a little hopeless. But in fact there are a number of things you can do to help - from volunteering to becoming a citizen scientist yourself, to supporting some of the extraordinary organisations out there.
We’re putting together a database of actions to launch next Monday (Feb 13). To mark the launch, we’ll be hosting an online discussion with elephant experts, discussing what everyone can do, and assessing areas where genuine progress is being made.
The questions we’ll be looking at will include:
- Can we really have an impact on poaching levels?
- How can we support innovative conservation projects?
- What is the best way to support bans on ivory in our own countries?
Our panellists will include:
- Tarsh Thekaekara, The Shola Trust
- Heather Sohl, World Wildlife Fund
- Paula Kahumbu, Wildlife Direct
- Rob Brandford, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
- Shamini Jayanathan and Lauren Evans, Space for Giants
- Mark Jones, Born Free
How to contact us
Have you got an idea about how to help? Do you know an organisation that does fantastic work? Or do you have a question for our experts? Email us at elephant.conservation@theguardian.com, or add your thoughts in the comments below.
The live chat is not video or audio-enabled but will take place in the comments section (below). Want to recommend someone for the panel or ask a question in advance? Get in touch via elephant.conservation@theguardian.com.
