UPSC Prelims 2017 Q6: Environment & Ecology – Biodiversity & Conservation
Consider the following statements in respect of Trade Related Analysis of Fauna and Flora in
Commerce (TRAFFIC) :
1. TRAFFIC is a bureau under United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
2. The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure that trade in wild plants and animals is not a threat to the
conservation of nature.
Which of the above statements is/are correct ?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation
TRAFFIC: the wildlife trade monitoring network
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. TRAFFIC is a bureau under UNEP | Incorrect | It is a joint programme of WWF and IUCN, founded in 1976, not a UN body |
| 2. Its mission is to ensure wildlife trade does not threaten conservation | Correct | It monitors trade in wild plants and animals so it stays legal and sustainable |
Key facts:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1976 |
| Partners | WWF and IUCN |
| HQ | Cambridge, UK |
| India office | TRAFFIC India, within WWF-India, New Delhi |
| Works with | CITES Secretariat and national enforcement agencies |
Answer: (b) 2 only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. TRAFFIC is a WWF-IUCN programme, not a UNEP bureau.
- (b) CORRECT. TRAFFIC works so that wildlife trade does not threaten conservation.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false; TRAFFIC is not part of UNEP.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 2 correctly states TRAFFIC's mission.
Key point
TRAFFIC (1976) = joint WWF-IUCN wildlife trade monitoring network, HQ Cambridge; works with CITES; not a UN body.
Remember
TRAFFIC is WWF-IUCN, not UNEP.
Common mistakes
- Assuming every global environment body sits under UNEP.
- Confusing TRAFFIC with the CITES Secretariat, which UNEP does host.
- Not knowing TRAFFIC India operates from WWF-India.
Exam tip
CITES Secretariat = UNEP; TRAFFIC = WWF + IUCN.
Sources
- TRAFFIC — About us
- WWF-India — TRAFFIC India