technoloy to save the Rino from poaching

[TriGuy]

I hope this approach works

A San Francisco startup, Pembient, is using biotechnology to 3D print fake rhino horns that match the real ones in genetic makeup. Their plan? To flood the Chinese market, where the demand for rhino horns has driven poaching to critical levels, with these synthetic alternatives. By selling these horns at a much lower price, about one-eighth of what poachers would get for real ones, they aim to make poaching less profitable, potentially saving rhinos from extinction.

The CEO, Matthew Markus, claims their lab-grown horns are even purer than those from wild rhinos, free from modern pollutants. Pembient's strategy is innovative, aiming to disrupt the black market by flooding it with affordable, indistinguishable fakes. They're even planning to introduce a beer in China made with this synthetic horn, perhaps to change how the product is viewed culturally.

While this approach could reduce poaching, it also raises questions about promoting the use of rhino horn in different contexts, which might affect conservation efforts in unforeseen ways.

[Truckman]

Maybe they can branch out into elephant ivory and giraffe bone...a cheaper source of grips for my guns would be welcome......Ben

[Truckman]

And it turns out those who value critter life above human life don't like the idea none too well......Ben

[UTAH]

Pembient shoots and scores, in my book.

I'll make sure our Zoo Donors know about this issue. Wifey's on good terms with them (she serves them lot of drinks at Hogle Zoo Brew events).

Hunter

[Dave Grubb]

And it turns out those who value critter life above human life don't like the idea none too well......Ben

Very interesting article Ben. While the author clearly has his own interest in mind his concern with the Humane Society is not unique. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) can, and likely does, suffer from an unhealthy affinity for self preservation---simply put they lose their way. The NRA is a familiar example of a once "noble" organization to a corrupted fraternity protecting and funding a pampered life style.

The current issues regarding Rino horn fuels contributions from a lot of conservationists that might decline if the poaching of Rinos were to end.