UN Year of the Gorilla boosts conservation of the world's most endangered great apes

Bonn, 11 March 2010 - The plight of gorillas in danger was given a higher profile during the UN Year of the Gorilla through hundreds of articles, interviews, lectures, conferences and films - more than through any similar global species campaign. In addition, the UN Year of the Gorilla 2009 generated 100,000 Euros for field projects to prevent critically endangered gorilla species going extinct. The educational and awareness raising campaign was led by the UNEP Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (UNEP/CMS). Member states to the Convention, members of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), the Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP), conservation bodies, individuals at the grass root level and online donations helped to raise funds.

Elizabeth Mrema, UNEP/CMS Executive Secretary said: "With the support of innovative gorilla projects the UN Year of the Gorilla has created a permanent legacy. Conserving gorillas not only helps safeguarding their habitat, which is shared by us, but it also addresses the major challenges of climate change and poverty."

Protection of gorilla species that face serious risks and their vulnerable ecosystems cannot be achieved without the active involvement of people on the ground. Therefore, the main focus is being placed on the participation of local communities that share gorilla habitat. Improving protection by involving communities and providing staff training, supporting the enforcement of wildlife law, preventing illegal logging and reducing the use of firewood and charcoal are vital to reduce threats to the remaining populations of gorillas in the wild.

Gorillas are threatened with extinction due to habitat destruction through agricultural expansion, mining activities and the exploitation of natural resources, armed conflicts and hunting.

Ian Redmond said: "We depend on gorillas, elephants and other fruit-eating animals to sustain the African rainforests by planting the next generation of trees. Sustainable management of wildlife and other natural resources not only preserves gorilla habitat, but it provides long term livelihoods for people and helps secure the future of the planet."

Full Release