Orang-utan numbers have plummeted over recent years, mainly as a result of the spread of monocultures, particularly oil palm. The destruction of huge areas of Orang-utan habitat is now seriously threatening the species with extinction. So how best to ensure the survival of the Orang-utan?
This debate focusses on the controversy surrounding Orang-utan conservation: Is rehabilitation and reintroduction of rescued captive animals a viable way of conserving Orang-utans or would resources be better spent on the purchase, protection and recreation of their natural habitats?
Experts are divided in their opinions, and this forum, consisting of conservation experts, scientists and local conservationists, will pool their views and open the debate to the floor in what should prove to be an intriguing and lively discussion. The debate will be chaired by The Earl of Cranbrook, with Dr David Chivers (Cambridge University) and John Burton (World Land Trust) introducing the discussion.
This debate is being convened, and held jointly, with the World Land Trust (WLT) and the Linnean Society.
WLT’s first Orang-utan Appeal, launched in 2008, has successfully raised funds to save important forest habitat in the Lower Kinabatangan Floodplain of Sabah. We have launched a second appeal for Borneo's Orang-utans to raise funds for further land purchases in the Kinabatangan area."
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