USAID and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce promote counter wildlife trafficking corporate social responsibility

USAID and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce promote counter wildlife trafficking corporate social responsibility
Participants discussed the impact of COVID-19 on Quang Ninh’s tourism sector.
USAID Wildlife Asia, in partnership the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), organized a workshop on June 8, 2020 to integrate counter wildlife trafficking in corporate social responsibility (CSR) actions for sustainable tourism in Quang Ninh. VCCI has already had success in convincing businesses to accept CSR but has yet to fully incorporate wildlife trafficking in this work.

The workshop attracted over 100 participants from Quang Ninh’s local authorities including the Forest Protection Department, tour companies, and travel agencies. Participants discussed the impact of COVID 19 on Quang Ninh’s economy, particularly as it relates to tourism. Participants learned how to use social and behavior change communication approaches to reduce wildlife consumption and how they could facilitate their businesses’ recovery by mitigating legal and reputational risks, including those posed by unwitting involvement in the illegal wildlife trade.  So what?  Obtaining commitment of private sector companies to integrate counter wildlife trafficking in their CSR actions helps to reduce demand for parts and products from endangered animals, thereby protecting wildlife.