Biodiversity loss continues to be one of the greatest issues for this generation despite the development of International Environmental Law (IEL). By examining the anthropocentric nature of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) I will argue that how we attribute value to wildlife and the human-centric construction of law are the key reasons for the failures of IEL. Ultimately a shift in attitude is required if we are to effectively halt environmental degradation and protect wildlife species under IEL.
