ABSTRACT
Enhancing the conservation status of wild animals and plants was one of the original focus areas of global environmental concern. This translated into early international treaties motivated by negative impacts upon species. As international wildlife law evolved, the legal frameworks became more comprehensive and sophisticated, covering groups and classes of animals, trade-related issues, regional imperatives, whole ecosystems and ultimately encompassing all biological diversity. Despite these efforts, the world is facing an extinction crisis. This chapter traces the development of international wildlife law, as well as the concepts, approaches and legal tools embedded within it. Key treaty regimes are explored, as well as other international environmental law of relevance to wildlife conservation. The chapter concludes with an examination of outstanding issues and concerns.
