Did you know that while you're traveling between countries, endangered species could be sharing your flight - in violation of international law? In fact, on March 14th a traveler was arrested in Bangkok's international airport trying to smuggle 20 baby slow lorises, 30 monitor lizards, and 25 flyriver turtles - all protected species!

The illegal international trade in wildlife is a multi-billion dollar industry driving many species to the brink of extinction, as animals and wildlife products are smuggled to supply an illegal market in exotic pets and luxury goods made of endangered species.

Help us prevent poachers and smugglers from profiting as Malayan sun bears, slow lorises, rare birds, reptiles, and other species are trafficked from country to country.

Urge the aviation industry to crack down on wildlife crime in the skies by joining our petition to this year's Aviation and Environment Summit.

Encourage airlines and airports to be more vigilant when inspecting and transporting luggage, to make a concerted effort to stop the illegal transport of endangered species and illegal wildlife products, and to work with law enforcement authorities to bring wildlife traffickers to justice.

The illegal trade in wildlife not only affects individual species but entire ecosystems. According to the U.S. Congress, the multi-billion dollar illegal trade is also tied to organized crime, drug smuggling, gun running, and even armed separatist movements and insurgencies. The implications for global health are dire as well. The illegal wildlife trade can spread diseases like bird flu, SARS, and other contagions, affecting not only humans but livestock, wildlife populations and even the world economy.

Unlike many other global environmental threats, the illegal trade in endangered species can be effectively combated if law enforcement agencies receive effective cooperation from conservation groups and the private sector. The aviation industry leadership can play a critical role.

On April 22-23, 2008, world leaders in the aviation industry will meet in Geneva at the Aviation and Environment Summit to discuss the steps the industry can take to minimize its environmental impact. Please sign this petition, as we will forward it to the summit and urge them to consider their role in combating the illegal trade in wildlife and protecting animals in the wild.