"Ivory Age on sales-adjusted certificate to bypass the rules" NOW

This is what the Avaaz Action Group says after letting the Oxford University investigate more than a hundred ivory objects. This research shows that 75 percent was after 1947 and 20 percent after 1989.

In the Netherlands this ivory is still for sale, reports Trouw based on research. Avaaz bought eighteen ivory items in the Netherlands, fourteen at Marktplaats and four in antique shops. The NOS reports that thirteen objects date from after 1947.

In the European Union, an ivory product manufactured before 1947 may be sold. Ivory between 1947 and 1990 requires that a certificate be sold legally. Anything that is made of ivory is illegal.

It can be difficult for buyers to recognize illegal ivory. Researchers know the age of carbon dating. Looking at the carbon atoms, we can check the age of something. Buyers must rely on the seller's certificates and word of mouth.

The European Commission announced last month that ivory trade should be completely banned.

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