WildAid

Whale sharks are a marvel of the ocean, with each individual boasting a unique pattern of spots, akin to a fingerprint. These slow-moving, filter-feeding giants can live up to 100 years, playing a crucial role in marine ecosystems by maintaining the balance of plankton levels. Yet, despite their peaceful nature, whale sharks are facing serious threats. Like other shark species, their fins and meat are often sought after, and squalene—a compound found in their liver oil—is still used in some cosmetics, further endangering these gentle giants. Overfishing, habitat loss, and unregulated tourism add to their growing challenges. We work with local partners across the world to improve the enforcement of priority marine areas, which protect critical whale shark habitats and migration paths, and by reducing the demand for shark products through public awareness campaigns. Together, we can help ensure these gentle giants grace our oceans for generations to come. #InternationalWhaleSharkDay #WhaleSharks

We’re thrilled to welcome Wes Carter to WildAid’s Board of Directors! With his commitment to conservation and sustainability, we look forward to working together to advance our mission to protect wildlife and vital habitats worldwide.

Mangrove forests are essential to the survival of life on land and at sea. These tropical trees provide safe harbor for 341 threatened species worldwide. They are home to roughly one-third of all marine species, and their root systems provide vital nurseries and feeding grounds for marine wildlife such as sharks, manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, rays, reptiles, and birds. In Coastal Ecuador, mangroves depend on the red crabs that make their homes in the trees’ tangled roots. Crabs shred and bury the mangrove trees’ fallen, decaying leaves in their burrows, aerating and enriching the soil with vital nutrients, and ensuring the mangrove forests thrive. 🦀 Learn about local communities' commitment to protecting crabs during their vulnerable mating season—and their dedication to safeguarding the mangrove forests as a whole: https://lnkd.in/gaEXXDQ5

Thailand’s shark fin consumption has dropped significantly—by 34% in just six years. Yet, demand persists, with over half of urban Thai citizens reporting they are still planning to try shark in the future, and as sharks are increasingly being used in a variety of products, including pet food and treats. Mongabay unpacks WildAid's latest report on Thailand's demand for shark fin, the changing market for shark products, and the conservation efforts needed moving forward:

We’re loving the rise of the #UnderconsumptionCore trend, which encourages a move away from overconsumption by embracing sustainable practices like reusing, repurposing, and reducing waste. This movement isn’t just about buying less—it’s about transforming our consumption habits to build a sustainable future. 🌍🌱 Swipe 👉 for tips on how to take part, from making intentional purchases to creatively reusing old items. Let’s lead by example and inspire others to join this movement for a healthier, more resilient planet!

Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 19th at 11 am PST/2 pm EST! You're invited to join WildAid's 50-minute livestream, where we'll share updates on our current campaigns that are inspiring millions to make lifestyle changes that protect wildlife and their habitats. With climate change now posing a greater threat to endangered species than poaching, individual action is more important than ever. We've shown that small steps can lead to a significant collective impact, reducing global warming and giving endangered wildlife a fighting chance to survive and thrive. Register here—we can't wait to see you there: https://lnkd.in/gNWmK4CQ

ICYMI: Last week on #WorldElephantDay, we asked our followers to pledge to wash their clothes in cold water for one month. This simple action reduces an individual's carbon footprint and helps combat the growing effects of climate change on elephants and other wildlife. We’re excited to share that in just one week, hundreds of people have taken the pledge, saving nearly 9,000 lbs. of carbon emissions—equivalent to 10,000 miles of driving! Individual actions matter in the fight against climate change. If you haven’t taken the #ColdWaterPledge yet, join this growing community of people who share a commitment to protecting our planet and the animals we share it with: https://lnkd.in/gABQ4qgG Thank you for making a difference!

In collaboration with Shenzhen Airlines and the Shenzhen Women and Children Development Foundation, we recently launched a wildlife drawing competition for young travelers and their families! During flights, flight attendants shared educational materials highlighting the importance of protecting endangered species and the impact of refusing to purchase pangolin products. Out of the many inspiring entries, 30 exceptional drawings have been selected for judging via public and private panels later this month. Prizes for the winners include eco-friendly pangolin toys, pangolin-themed coloring books, and Shenzhen Airlines aircraft models. Together, we're empowering the next generation of conservationists and inspiring all to cherish the natural world.

We’re thrilled to share that Defenders of the Hidden has become the highest-rated documentary on Youku, one of China’s top streaming platforms! The two-part docuseries, released on Youku on July 29 and YouTube on August 5, follows WildAid ambassador Wang Yibo as he meets the scientists, forest rangers, community residents, conservation organizations, and science education workers fighting to protect the Chinese pangolin. Documentary-related content published by WildAid in China has reached 1 BILLION views, 2.53 million shares, and 6 million likes. Huge thank you to our supporters and to Wang Yibo and his incredible fans for making this success possible and for helping bring much-needed awareness to pangolins! 📽️ Watch Defenders of the Hidden here: https://lnkd.in/gAVf25K5

Happy World Elephant Day! Today, we celebrate these mighty megaherbivores, essential to maintaining the biodiversity of savannas and forests. As they roam, elephants clear the way, allowing sunlight to reach shorter plants and creating pathways for smaller animals to move and disperse nuts and seeds. But with climate change becoming a growing threat, elephants need our help more than ever. You can make a difference by joining WildAid’s Cold Water Pledge. 💧 Commit to washing your clothes in cold water for one month to reduce your carbon footprint and protect these incredible animals. Together, we can help safeguard their future! Pledge here: https://lnkd.in/gABQ4qgG #WorldElephantDay #ColdWaterPledge