It is estimated that three rhinos are killed on average every day in South Africa. A campaign called “Save the Rhino Vietnam” has been launched with the participation of Hollywood actor and film producer Paul Blackthorne, Education for Nature Vietnam (ENV), and Save the Rhino International (SRI). On Monday, the first event of this campaign took place in Hanoi to raise students' awareness about saving the rhino.
According to Save the Rhino International (SRI), over 1,200 rhinos were killed in South Africa in 2014. Scientists warn that the rhino may become extinct in the next 10 years. Currently, Vietnam is one of the biggest markets for rhino horn. Paul Blackthorne shared this information with 500 students at Thăng Long University in Hanoi on Friday.
Kicking off the campaign, the event aims to raise awareness and reduce demand for rhino horn in Vietnam. Students are a special target of this campaign.
After attending the conference with Paul Blackthorne, many students have changed their opinions on the rhino issue.
"That we do nothing doesn’t mean we are good. We at least have to take action to show that we are responsible for protecting the rhino." - Do Phuong Dzung, Student, Thang Long University.
"I will tell my family and the people I know that buying and selling rhino horns is illegal. It doesn’t bring any benefits, but will cause the extinction of the rhino species." - Pham Hai Nam, Student, Thang Long University.
After this event, the actor will meet with business leaders in Vietnam, hold an exhibition about rhino protection, and visit some of the country's wildlife rescue centers, in hopes that he can show the community how important it is to protect the rhino species.
