As the human community expands across the globe, more and more communities find themselves in conflict with the animals that used to live where people have taken over. From elephants in India and Africa to wolves in the US, such conflict is economically damaging for people and often deadly for the animals involved.

FreeMeWildlife, an organization in South Africa, is offering a free Zoom conference on Non-toxic Solutions for Wildlife Conflict 18 February at 1500 UTC (we think; check the posting for time in your area):

Join Michaela White this February for an in-depth talk about the various non-toxic methods that can be used in human/wildlife conflict situations. From an overpopulation of rodents, bats in rooves, or even if you have little critters using your home as a nesting site. Allow us to assist you with how to correctly deal with these problems to benefit both yourself and the animal affected! This talk will take place on Zoom. Please book your spot through Facebook or by emailing adminsupport@freemekzn.co.za

There appears to be a nominal charge for those not affiliated with the organization.

[Have more suggestions about useful online meetings coming up? Let The Pollinator know!]

 In particular, we note that both the destruction and fragmentation of natural habitats, and also unsustainable, often unregulated, and frequently illegal use of wildlife and wildlife products contributes to the disruption of ecosystems and the likelihood of pathogens transferring to humanity from wild animals. We recognise that many human societies, including some indigenous and traditional peoples, depend on wildlife products for food and medicine, and we call for full implementation of national and international laws against the illegal wildlife trade, and better regulation of legal wildlife commerce, for the good of human health and for nature’s flourishing.   Alongside this, we urge Christian communities worldwide to teach the inherent value of all creatures to God and to encourage virtues of compassion, caution and care in relation to the human use of nature and its constituent parts.

Read the full statement here, in Spanish here, or download a printable PDF. We would particularly encourage you to view the interview on YouTube, or download the transcript here.

*Renew Our World is a global movement of Christians who believe that since we are truly image bearers of God, we should act like it – living out love for one another in actions and in truth. Since we are image bearers of God, we won’t stand by while our neighbours are trapped in poverty, and we won’t stay idle as creation is left untended, and inequality is left to fester. Join the campaign here!