IN commemoration of World Wildlife Day on Sunday, the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC) joined forces with the Protected Areas Commission to host a vibrant Wildlife Fair at the Guyana Zoological Park and Wildlife Rescue Centre, marking World Wildlife Day 2024.

Under the overarching theme of “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation,” World Wildlife Day 2024 shed light on the pivotal role that technology plays in advancing wildlife conservation efforts globally.

According to the GWCMC, modern technology serves as a cornerstone in various facets of wildlife conservation, including raising awareness, conducting research, generating income, managing trade, and monitoring animal populations.

Notable technological applications embraced in wildlife conservation encompass camera traps, drones, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), microchipping, environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, and specialised software.

Echoing this sentiment, the Sustainable Wildlife Management Programme in Guyana highlighted the increasing accessibility of the internet, even in remote regions like Rupununi, signifying a significant transformation in recent years.

Meanwhile, Environmental Management Consultants (EMC) Guyana emphasised how this year’s theme resonates with their organisation’s commitment to leveraging technology for safeguarding Guyana’s rich biodiversity. From deploying camera traps to employing drones for aerial surveillance and utilising telemetry devices for tagging turtles, EMC exemplifies the fusion of technology and conservation efforts.

Just days before the event, EMC unveiled its latest initiative, the children’s book titled ‘Arya Takes a Swim,’ inspired by the 2023 Turtle Telemetry Programme jointly implemented by EMC, the Turtle Conservancy, and the Protected Areas Commission, with support from partners such as the Environmental Protection Agency-Guyana, the Guyana Marine Conservation Society, and GWCMC, with backing from ExxonMobil Guyana.

The Wildlife Fair brought together various stakeholders from Guyana’s wildlife conservation community, offering a platform for sharing invaluable insights and strategies aimed at preserving the nation’s diverse wildlife. Participants exchanged knowledge on innovative conservation methods, reaffirming their commitment to protecting Guyana’s natural heritage for future generations.

As World Wildlife Day continues to serve as a rallying point for global conservation efforts, the spotlight on technology’s indispensable role underscores the ongoing collaboration and innovation driving wildlife conservation initiatives worldwide.