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 Ivory, a dense, white material primarily derived from the tusks and teeth of various animals like elephants and walruses, has a long history of use and a significant impact on wildlife conservation. Historically, it was valued for its aesthetic qualities and used in carving, jewelry, piano keys, and other objects. However, the demand for ivory has fueled poaching and illegal trade, leading to dramatic declines in elephant populations and prompting international regulations like the CITES treaty. 

Here's a more detailed look at the topic:

1. What is Ivory?

Ivory is a hard, white substance that primarily comes from the tusks of elephants, but can also be found in other animals like walruses and hippos. 

It's made of dentin, which is the hard tissue that makes up the bulk of teeth and tusks. 

Ivory is valued for its durability, density, and the way it polishes. 

It's not just found in animals; it can also be produced synthetically, and Wikipedia notes that tagua nuts can be carved to resemble ivory. 

2. Historical and Cultural Significance:

Ivory has been used for thousands of years in various cultures for making art objects, jewelry, and other decorative items. 

In ancient Egypt, ivory was used for ornaments and sometimes combined with precious stones. 

In China, ivory carvings were highly prized, particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties. 

In Western cultures, ivory has been used for carving, furniture, and even in the making of piano keys. 

3. The Impact of the Ivory Trade on Wildlife:

The demand for ivory has driven poaching and illegal trade, particularly in elephant tusks. 

This has led to significant declines in elephant populations across Africa and Asia. 

The international trade in ivory is now heavily regulated, with many countries banning it, including China. 

Despite the bans, illegal ivory trade continues, fueled by high market prices, especially in Asia, reports the International Fund for Animal Welfare. 

4. Contemporary Issues and Conservation Efforts:

There's a lot of debate about the legality of ivory trade, with critics arguing that any legal trade can encourage poaching. 

Some countries, like China, have destroyed their stockpiles of ivory in an effort to curb illegal trade. 

Conservation efforts focus on protecting elephant populations through anti-poaching measures, habitat protection, and promoting sustainable alternatives to ivory. 

Organizations like TRAFFIC and the International Fund for Animal Welfare are working to reduce demand and combat illegal trade.

[12:23 pm, 13/04/2025] Shafaci Dahir: