We are committed to a world where all species live in
harmony with one another.
We employ a multi-faceted approach to address the rhino poaching crisis that includes traditional strategies with new and improved ideas and technologies. These include improved security and management tools, technology for forensics, traceability and transparency of horns, and a sustainable finance mechanism for rhino management and protection.
We collaborate with the world’s leading wildlife and conservation and management experts to ensure all aspects of rhino conservation are considered. These partners inform our strategy to save and recover these species and broaden support for the Rhinomics conservation model.
All these efforts facilitate range expansion and improved rhino conservation.
Influencing Policy
We work to inform global and national policies to promote the conservation and sustainable management of rhinos.
We consult with a wide variety of economists and experts who have experience in rhino conservation and in the policy space. Our work is informed by the RHINO ELDERS who together have decades of seminal knowledge and on-the-ground rhino expertise.
The Rhino Elders subscribe to the shared belief that legal trade will save the species.
Shared Belief
We believe controlled legal rhino horn trade is the only option that may save rhinos. Not only is it a self-renewing resource; but substantial stockpiles also exist. Through strict protocols, the regulated and legal sale will enable the financing necessary to meet the escalating costs of protecting the species – turning rhinos into assets, not liabilities, and ensuring their long-term survival. Income from the sale of horns will go directly, and immediately, to the guardians of rhinos rather than the criminals.
Technology
We work with cutting-edge technology to expand and create a safe environment for rhinos to roam freely.
Rhinomics partners with software developers and conservationists to promote technological solutions that support rhino conservation efforts. These include software solutions for rhino and rhino horn forensics and traceability, and real-time rhino tracking and management tools.
Science
We work with scientists and veterinarians to ensure the traceability, transparency, and safety of rhinos and rhino horns.
Rhinomics consults with experienced RHINO VETS who experience first-hand, the daily challenges of keeping rhinos healthy and safe in our current environment. We are guided by their seasoned knowledge and experience in addressing the health and needs of our rhinos. We believe that those working in the trenches are well qualified in helping to formulate and bolster plans and policies that protect and expand the populations of rhinos in South Africa.
Research
We work with researchers at leading Universities in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Researchers are investigating the role of rhinos in Africa’s wildlife economy, and the business models and policies that can support this.
We know that rhino poaching is increasing, populations are decreasing, and habitat is shrinking – all fuelled by black-market demand and unaffordable maintenance and security costs that are forcing people to divest in rhinos. Despite decades of stricter rules and regulations for rhino protection, they remain at risk to hunting and poaching and so continuing to do what has not worked is no solution at all. We need to find non-traditional methods of putting poachers out of business.
Finance
We work with funders and investors to realise the value of living rhinos NOW, by creating a trade model that incorporates traceability within the current legislation.
The economic value of rhinos needs to be increased so that they are more valuable alive than dead. Their horns are a valuable, self-renewing resource that if , legally, ethically, and responsibly traded, can support themselves, their habitat, and local communities. While solutions are never without risks; the greater risk is doing nothing at all.