Tokyo: In-depth consumer research in Japan revealed that the sense of Iyashi (mental healing properties) and Kawaii (cuteness) people find in animals are the most significant underlying motivations for owning exotic pets. In the face of growing popularity of exotic pets globally, the study calls for consumer behaviour change through targeted communications and social mobilization.
Among the many threats facing wildlife today, the international pet trade is recognized as a key factor in driving some species towards extinction. Exotic pet trade is prevalent in many countries around the world, and Japan is one of the largest consumer countries and also a trend-setter for exotic animal cafes, which are spreading across Asia.
Understanding people’s underlying motivations for wanting exotic pets is vital to developing effective initiatives that can achieve a lasting change in their behaviour. This is one of the measures that can help prevent species decline and contribute to preserving our planet’s biodiversity, said Tomomi Kitade, Head of Japan Office for TRAFFIC and Wildlife Group Lead of WWF Japan.
read more www.traffic.org/publications/reports/study-unveils-consumer-motivations-for-exotic-pets-in-japan/
