In a landmark decision, the Hong Kong Endangered Species Advisory Committee voted today to destroy almost the entire ivory stockpile, 28 of its estimated 33 tons.

Conservationists have applauded the decision as a major step in the battle against the ivory trade. Andrea Crosta, Executive Director of the Elephant Action League, commented: “I think it’s a very important step, a much more meaningful gesture than the crush in mainland China [earlier this year].”

“It’s too early to say if we have a new partner, ally, in Hong Kong, to curb the illegal ivory trade, but it’s certainly a concrete action to get rid of most of their stock.”

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/comment/hong-kong-to-destroy-28-tonnes-of-ivory-9080903.html