6 tons of seized ivory to be crushed in US

DENVER (AP) Wildlife officials are planning to crush more than 6 tons of ivory as part of a push by the United States to combat illegal trafficking worldwide.

The ivory was seized around the country in an effort to block imports of tusks from elephants that have been slaughtered for their tusks.

The seized items include whole tusks that have been carved into scenes from daily life.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said the illegal industry has become a $10 billion one.

The Denver Post reports the agency plans to pulverize the ivory next month.

President Barack Obama issued an order July 1 to fight the killing of protected wildlife, stop the trafficking and reduce demand for illegal rhino horns and ivory.

U.S. officials said they will give $10 million to help fight poaching in Africa and will try to persuade Asian governments to outlaw products made from elephant ivory.

Tactics being considered include using technology to monitor elephants, a social media campaign in China to stigmatize the industry and cooperation with companies such as eBay to stop the commerce.

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Information from: The Denver Post, http://www.denverpost.com