Finnair has signed the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce Buckingham Palace Declaration which denounces the illegal transportation and trade of wildlife and wildlife products. The pledge also aims to increase partnerships with government authorities and conservation organizations in the fight against traffickers and smugglers of endangered animals. “Sustainable development and corporate responsibility are an integral part of our operations as an airline and we aim to incorporate these in all our processes and product design,” says Pekka Vauramo, Chief Executive Officer, Finnair. “Signing the Buckingham Palace Declaration was a very logical next step for Finnair and we are very pleased with the industry’s efforts in putting an end to the illegal traffic of endangered wildlife.” For several years, Finnair has refused to carry any animals or wildlife products which are contrary to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wildlife Fauna and Flora (CITES). In 2015, Finnair took the extra step of prohibiting the transport of hunting trophies or memorabilia originating from endangered species in its cargo network. Last March, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents 265 airlines, signed the United for Wildlife pledge. Over 20 major airlines, including Finnair, have now signed as individual signatories. For additional information on IATA’s pledge to support the United Wildlife Transport Taskforce Buckingham Palace Declaration: http://www.iata.org/pressroom/pr/Pages/2016-06-02-05.aspx
