By Ellanie Smit, Windhoek
A conservation initiative called the Rhisotope Project has now officially moved from the research phase to practical implementation. The project was developed by South Africa's University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) in collaboration with international experts and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and uses radioactive isotopes to make rhino horns detectable on the black market – and thus virtually worthless.
This radical approach aims to deter poachers by marking rhino horns with traceable radioactive material so that they can be easily identified at international borders using existing radiation detectors.
According to a statement from Wits University, the Rhisotope project entered its operational phase in mid-2025 after years of laboratory testing, field trials, and international consultations. It states that during the testing phase earlier this year, researchers treated 20 rhinos in a sanctuary within the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. The aim was to ensure that the method was not only effective against illegal trade, but also 100% safe for the animals.
After extensive biological testing, including blood tests and DNA analysis, the scientists concluded that the procedure had no negative impact on the rhinos' health.
According to the statement, the treated horns, which now contain a small amount of radioactive material, were successfully detected by radiation monitors used at airports and seaports worldwide. A key advantage of the project is the use of existing nuclear security infrastructure. The IAEA reports that over 10,000 radiation monitors are already in use worldwide. “For the first time, we have used nuclear science not only to fight crime, but also to protect an endangered species. This could change everything for the protection of rhinos,” said Professor James Larkin, the project's lead scientist.
The IAEA praised the initiative for its innovation and practical impact. Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi noted that the project “shows how peaceful nuclear technology can be repurposed for environmental and species protection.”
Now that the Rhisotope project has proven to be safe and feasible, it is inviting wildlife reserves, private rhino owners, and conservation authorities to participate in expanding the program.
While the focus is currently on rhinos, there is growing interest in applying the same technology to other species that are victims of wildlife trafficking, such as elephants and pangolins. Researchers are already investigating how different isotopes can be safely embedded in tusks, scales, or other valuable animal body parts.
A conservation initiative called the Rhisotope Project has now officially moved from the research phase to practical implementation. The project was developed by South Africa's University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) in collaboration with international experts and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and uses radioactive isotopes to make rhino horns detectable on the black market – and thus virtually worthless.
This radical approach aims to deter poachers by marking rhino horns with traceable radioactive material so that they can be easily identified at international borders using existing radiation detectors.
According to a statement from Wits University, the Rhisotope project entered its operational phase in mid-2025 after years of laboratory testing, field trials, and international consultations. It states that during the testing phase earlier this year, researchers treated 20 rhinos in a sanctuary within the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. The aim was to ensure that the method was not only effective against illegal trade, but also 100% safe for the animals.
After extensive biological testing, including blood tests and DNA analysis, the scientists concluded that the procedure had no negative impact on the rhinos' health.
According to the statement, the treated horns, which now contain a small amount of radioactive material, were successfully detected by radiation monitors used at airports and seaports worldwide. A key advantage of the project is the use of existing nuclear security infrastructure. The IAEA reports that over 10,000 radiation monitors are already in use worldwide. “For the first time, we have used nuclear science not only to fight crime, but also to protect an endangered species. This could change everything for the protection of rhinos,” said Professor James Larkin, the project's lead scientist.
The IAEA praised the initiative for its innovation and practical impact. Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi noted that the project “shows how peaceful nuclear technology can be repurposed for environmental and species protection.”
Now that the Rhisotope project has proven to be safe and feasible, it is inviting wildlife reserves, private rhino owners, and conservation authorities to participate in expanding the program.
While the focus is currently on rhinos, there is growing interest in applying the same technology to other species that are victims of wildlife trafficking, such as elephants and pangolins. Researchers are already investigating how different isotopes can be safely embedded in tusks, scales, or other valuable animal body parts.
