Preserving Our Planet

The treatment an elephant faces in the tourist industry. A recent study by Oxford University revealed some of the secret methods used in animal attractions so people can make money out of the practises involved in selling trips to tourists. From seemingly innocent rides to petting and selfies, the lifelong suffering involved is heart-breaking. Here’s the truth that travel agents profiting from selling these trips don’t want you to know.   1.     Elephant rides Whilst ambling along atop a strong elephant might not seem cruel to most, it is the treatment behind these innocent rides that people are unaware of. Yes, elephants appear docile and friendly, so it is plausible that they will allow people to ride them. However, the reason you’re able to sit astride them is rather sinister. To allow interactions with humans to take place, young elephants are forcibly removed from their mothers and compelled to endure a horrendous training process referred to a...

Sea Shepherd: the saviour of the seas   Paul Watson: Shepherd of the Seas. Discovering Sea Shepherd In 2009, I happened upon an article about a marine conservation group who were recruiting volunteers for a mission in the south Antarctic seas to stop Japanese whalers from illegal fishing. I was tempted to apply but without nautical experience – bar a few minutes at the wheel of a catamaran in the Whitsunday islands – I was not really in a position to do anything productive. My time steering the cat was short-lived as the skipper was not happy that my directional skills meant the cat was veering off course and likely to go backwards if it was at all possible. I couldn’t help but keep the idea of helping Sea Shepherd at the fore of my mind and futilely discussed how good it would be to volunteer with various friends. I i...