Over the years, CITES has achieved notable successes in its mission to safeguard endangered species and conserve global biodiversity. It has played a role in protecting species and fostering international collaboration for wildlife management. Despite its accomplishments, CITES faces challenges in its pursuit of protecting endangered species and preserving biodiversity. The illegal trade in wildlife remains a grave threat to many species, undermining CITES efforts to regulate international trade effectively. Some member countries struggle to enforce CITES regulations effectively, leading to illegal trade or circumvention of the convention. CITES must adapt to address emerging challenges, such as the identification of wildlife and its products, exploitation of digital platforms to facilitate illegal wildlife trade and understanding supply chains including herbal medicines.

CITES and medicinal plants

CITES is a cornerstone in the preservation of medicinal plants, a critical link between biodiversity conservation and human well-being. Through a comprehensive approach that combines legal frameworks, community engagement, and sustainable practices, CITES plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by the trade of medicinal plants as showcased through compelling case studies.

In the United States, American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) provides an example of CITES in action. This medicinal plant faced overexploitation due to its high demand in traditional Asian medicine markets. However, with a CITES intervention, American Ginseng was listed under Appendix II, leading to a permitting system that controlled its international trade. This move not only curtailed excessive harvesting but also fostered collaboration among stakeholders. Local harvesters, state regulatory agencies, and NGOs joined forces to ensure responsible collection practices, mitigating the strain on wild populations while allowing sustainable commerce to continue.

In Nepal, Jatamansi (Nardostachys grandiflora) demonstrates the entwined nature of traditional medicine, cultural heritage, and conservation. Jatamansi holds deep cultural significance and has been harvested for centuries. However, unregulated trade led to habitat degradation and population decline. CITES recognition brought about positive change. By listing Jatamansi under Appendix II, Nepal enacted stricter regulations on its harvest and trade, fostering a community-based approach. Local cooperatives now cultivate and sustainably harvest the plant, ensuring a steady supply while preserving its natural habitats. This holistic strategy not only safeguards biodiversity but also empowers local communities and preserves traditional knowledge.

In Cameroon, the story of African cherry (Prunus Africana) sheds light on the challenges and solutions in protecting medicinal plants. Prized for its bark’s pharmaceutical properties, this species faced exploitation that threatened its existence. Prunus africana was listed on CITES Appendix II, leading to a quota system and sustainable management plans. This approach empowered local communities to engage in responsible collection, thereby preventing overharvesting. Ecological and social wellbeing were safeguarded through collaborative efforts involving government agencies, NGOs, and communities.

In these case studies, CITES emerges as a pivotal conservation strategy in safeguarding medicinal plants and their ecosystems. Additionally, CITES recognises that names matter too, preventing confusion and misidentification of plant species. By establishing standardised nomenclature, CITES enhances trade transparency and conservation efforts. The interconnectedness of these actions has a far-reaching impact, securing ecosystems, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting sustainable livelihoods.