Few places on earth have been left untouched by human activities. Between 1970 and 2012 the world saw a drastic 58% decline in mammal, amphibian, reptile, fish and bird species. Every one of these species has a key role to play in the delicate web of life, and together they form the ecosystems we all depend on. This means that the threats we pose to wildlife have lasting repercussions for humans too.

Our wildlife work focuses on saving the remaining populations of tigers and Asian elephants in Myanmar. As umbrella species, by protecting them we are protecting the habitats in which they live along with the other flora and fauna living there. To do this we are working with the government to monitor and protect wildlife including establishing a wildlife ranger college to train those on the front lines of wildlife conservation, and to end the open sale of illegal wildlife products in Myanmar – essential steps if the country is to protect its natural heritage for future generations.

The responsibility of protecting Myanmar’s awe-inducing wildlife rests firmly on all of our shoulders. Wildlife still lives here, and we have the opportunity to learn from the mistakes of our neighbouring countries and to turn this story into one of hope, rather than regret.