Last but not least: license to survive
In an effort to help ensure the tiger's survival, a Belgian agency plans to collect licensing fees on tiger-inspired products—and return the proceeds to the big cat.
The "business" between humans and tigers is quite unequal: humans have been copying the appearance of the predator since time immemorial, making good money with it and exterminating the originator of the tiger pattern in return. Disappearing habitats and illegal hunting have been affecting the species for decades to such an extent that there are now only 3200 tigers left in the wild. The big cat needs help more urgently than ever - new approaches are needed and welcome.
Happiness Brussels presents one. For the organization Panthera the agency has created with the campaign "Tiger royalty" has launched a label to collect copyright fees on "tiger products". On a voluntary basis, of course. Companies that sell products inspired by tigers can join and contribute a certain amount per sale towards the protection of the big cat.
A refreshing idea that will hopefully be successful. The licensee is to be congratulated. (hae)
