JOHANNESBURG – South Africa has launched a groundbreaking initiative, the Rhisotope Project, which involves injecting radioactive isotopes into rhino horns to deter poaching and aid in the detection of smuggled wildlife products. Spearheaded by the University of the Witwatersrand, this innovative approach aims to make illicit rhino horn trade virtually impossible by rendering the horns detectable by standard radiation detectors at international borders. The project, recently in its final testing phase, has demonstrated that even a low dose of the isotopes can trigger alarms inside 40-foot shipping containers.
The Rhisotope Project, a collaboration between the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has confirmed the safety of the procedure for the animals. Professor James Larkin, Chief Scientific Officer of the Rhisotope Project at Wits University, stated, "We have demonstrated, beyond scientific doubt, that the process is completely safe for the animal and effective in making the horn detectable through international customs nuclear security systems." This scientific validation follows meticulous research and successful trials on live rhinos.
The technology is designed to create a powerful deterrent for traffickers. By making the horns radioactive, albeit harmlessly to the rhinos, the project leverages existing nuclear security infrastructure at ports and airports worldwide. This allows customs agents to easily identify and intercept smuggled horns, revealing trafficking routes and increasing the likelihood of prosecution for poachers and smugglers.
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by the severe threat facing rhino populations. According to recent data, with only approximately 27,000 rhinos left worldwide, South Africa alone loses around 500 rhinos annually to poaching. This alarming rate highlights the critical need for novel conservation methods.
Scientists involved in the Rhisotope Project believe this technology could fundamentally change the dynamics of rhino conservation. The project is now actively urging private wildlife parks and national conservation authorities to participate and have their rhinos injected, transforming the horns from a valuable target into a "trap" for illicit trade. The long-term vision includes not only deterring poaching but also fostering community engagement and education around rhino conservation.