Policy Engagement

We at Holématthi Nature Foundation are dedicated to driving real conservation impact by bridging research and policy. We believe that scientific insights must translate into action, and the strongest measure of conservation success lies in what is upheld by law. By leveraging our research, we advocate for policy reforms that protect wildlife, restore habitats, empower communities and ensuring lasting change for Karnataka’s biodiversity.

Discontinuing the practice of burning wildlife carcasses

Background

For years, the carcasses of wildlife- including elephants, large carnivores, and herbivores- have been routinely burned, or buried even when found in their natural habitat. While this practice was carried out for sanitary and management reasons, it overlooked the critical role carcasses play in the ecosystem.

Wildlife carcasses are far more than lifeless remains. They are a vital source of sustenance for numerous species, including scavengers, arthropods, and bacteria. They contribute essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, sodium, and calcium back into the soil, enriching the ecosystem and supporting plant growth.

Critically endangered vultures, which depend on large carcasses for survival, have been particularly affected by the removal of this food source. Additionally, species like hyenas and porcupines rely on bones as a crucial source of calcium. Even herbivores practice osteophagia- chewing bones to obtain essential minerals missing from their plant-based diet.

Recent studies highlight the long-lasting impact of carcasses, showing that they enrich soil nutrients up to 1.5 feet deep and foster microbial communities for over 40 months. Their decomposition cycle supports an entire food web, proving that even in death, these animals continue to play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance.

Action Taken

In consideration of a proposal submitted by Holématthi Nature Foundation, and recognizing the significance of carcasses in ecosystem functioning, a groundbreaking policy change was introduced by the Karnataka Forest Department mandating that carcasses of wildlife (except in the cases of communicable diseases), should not be cremated if found in their natural habitat.

Impacts and Results

This progressive policy change is already showing promising results:

Vulture Conservation: The availability of natural carcasses is aiding in the recovery of vulture populations, particularly in protected areas where they were once disappearing.
Ecological Insights: The policy has allowed researchers and forest officials to observe rare and complex social behaviours of elephants in response to the death of their own species. Leading to observations that were previously impossible when carcasses were immediately burned.
Ecosystem Health: Carcasses are naturally enriching the environment, supporting a diverse web of life from scavengers to soil microbes, and contributing to long-term ecological sustainability.

By ensuring that nature is allowed to take its course, this policy marks a significant step toward a more holistic and science-driven approach to conservation.