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Debunking the myth that a legal trade will solve the rhino horn crisis: A system dynamics model for market demand

28 May 2015
Publication Type: Working Paper
JEL Code: Q2, Q21, Q28

There is considerable debate in the literature over whether or not to legalise the trade in rhino horns. Here a system dynamics model is developed that considers five components: rhino abundance, rhino demand, a price model, an income model and a supply model. The results indicate that income elasticities are much greater than previously observed, while demand is relatively insensitive to price.  At the same time, legalising the trade without income modification policies did not prevent extinction.  The theory of s-curve growth may provide some indications of future growth patterns of Asian economies.  Results suggest that, even though the demand curve for rhino horn may be downward sloping as conventional theory predicts, non-conventional demand management strategies may be more effective than price orientated demand curve strategies such as trade legalisation in curbing supply.

Working paper 520
1 May 2015
RELATED JOURNAL:

Journal for Nature Conservation
1 November 2015
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