Sometime in early 2008, tons of African ivory will be sold at auction to Japan. Despite the international ban on the trade, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia will be allowed a one-time purge of their stockpiled ivory. Conservationists hope the sale won't reignite widespread demand for elephant tusks.

Dr. Philip Murthui, Director of Conservation Science at the African Wildlife Foundation, comments on this important issue.

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