Western wellness industry drives Ethiopian frankincense trees towards extinction

The increasing demand for frankincense in the western wellness industry is pushing Ethiopia's frankincense trees towards extinction. Once primarily used in religious ceremonies, frankincense has gained popularity for its purported health benefits, leading to a surge in global demand. This has resulted in overexploitation, with local farmers facing theft and violence as thieves target their trees for the valuable resin. The extraction process, which involves making cuts in the bark, is often done recklessly, leading to tree damage and a decline in regeneration. Studies indicate that the main species of frankincense tree, Boswellia papyrifera, could see a 90% decline by 2060 if current practices continue. The situation is exacerbated by climate change, internal conflicts, and poverty in the region, which drive locals to engage in unsustainable harvesting practices. As the trees dwindle, the livelihoods of local farmers are threatened, with many resorting to illegal harvesting to survive. The wellness industry's lucrative market for frankincense, while beneficial for some, is creating a cycle of exploitation that endangers both the trees and the communities that depend on them.

- The wellness industry's demand for frankincense is leading to its overexploitation in Ethiopia.

- Local farmers face theft and violence as thieves target their frankincense trees.

- Studies predict a potential 90% decline in Boswellia papyrifera trees by 2060 due to unsustainable harvesting.

- Climate change and regional conflicts further threaten the survival of frankincense trees.

- The livelihoods of local communities are at risk as they turn to illegal harvesting for income.