Decades of data tells us our world is quickly sliding past tipping points to points of no return. In just the last decade viable populations across the board have or are disappearing. That we not reaching global sustainable development and environmental goals compatible and conducive to the continuance of life as we know it. We must take action now to implement multilayered solutions, options and alternatives. The decisions of trade in endangered flora and fauna is CITES. CoP17 is happening right now. So what is CITES? How will the decisions made there affect life as we know it? To better understand what is at stake, today we have Nick Lynch and Tim Gorski,two of a team of four WildiZe Observers to CITES reporting direct from Johannesburg.