As a deplorable 2016 comes to an end, a glimmer of hope for 2017 shines itself through. This glimmer is for elephants, who are critically endangered. These beautiful creatures will finally have a chance to rebound from near extinction. The Chinese government recently announced that it will begin to phase out the ivory trade market by the end of 2017. It’s no surprise that the decline of elephants has been caused by the ivory trade market. This ivory “market” has caused innocent deaths of many elephants and rhinos for their horns and tusks. Moreover, the Chinese government has had a major part in the ivory trade business because they benefit financially from the products that ivory produces. These products can range from jewelry to piano keys. However, this step by the Chinese government could help elephant populations rebound sufficiently in their homeland.

More details on the ban were given which included prohibiting all exports and imports of ivory into the country of China. This could help elephants tremendously because many imports of ivory come from Africa, where elephant populations are heavily concentrated and poached. It would help ensure that elephants are not at risk from being poached and could lead to more conservation efforts for elephants. This year hasn’t been a great year for wildlife as giraffes, rhinos, and cheetahs have all had their populations decimated because of habitat destruction, poaching, and hunting. Many of these animals have been placed on the endangered species list and are in grave danger of being extinct in 50 years.

Though it seems that these animals don’t have a chance, there is still hope. China has given way to this hope by banning the ivory trade market and recognizing that the elephant is a gentle giant. This giant deserves to live a life in peace and without fear of being killed for their tusks, likewise, the other animals listed deserve this same life. This landmark decision by China could lead to other countries banning poaching and recognizing that each wild creature is precious and is important for our ecosystem. Although, 2016 has seen some dire wildlife news, it warms my heart to see that people are showing more compassion for animals. Animals aren’t meant to be in a zoo with a small enclosure for our amusement. They are needed in their natural habitat and I think governments around the world are starting to recognize this.

It’s my hope to see that man and animal can live together with respect. I do feel this is possible through education and interaction with some of these magnificent creatures. If people apply respect when encountering wildlife, then I do feel that animals can live in peace without being exterminated for profit or food. Even though 2016 was a bumpy ride for elephants, I do think 2017 will provide a smooth ride that will help elephant populations rebound for good.