Media Release 9 July 2024

Media Release

TORK CRAFT HELPS SAVE THE WILD RHINO

Rhisotope protects endangered wild rhinoceros

South Africa's favourite tool brand, Tork Craft has joined forces with the University of the Witwatersrand's Rhisotope Project to protect the endangered wild rhinoceros.

The Rhisotope Project uses a variety of security technologies in an effort to protect and conserve rhinos against game poachers slaughtering them for their horns, which command ludicrous value on the Oriental black medicine market. “Tork Craft is beyond excited to support this groundbreaking partnership with Wits University in the fight against rhino poaching,” Vermont Sales marketing director Ryan Hunt confirmed.

“The innovative Rhisotope Project uses high tech nuclear and data tracking technology to protect these magnificent creatures from the ravages of poaching. Tork Craft's involvement underscores the vital role that industry partnerships play in conservation by providing the tools necessary for this innovative solution.”

The Rhisotope project uses two radical technologies to protect the rhinoceros. Non-toxic low-dose stable cobalt radioisotopes are firstly introduced into rhino horns. This material is safe for both animals and humans, yet still detectable to trigger airport and harbour radiation scanners and help combat the illegal trade of rhino horn. If ingested however, the radioisotopes could prove fatal to anyone who eats them.

Each rhino horn is then sprayed with Data Dot technology. This security measure commonly applied to cars, electronics and other items liable to be stolen, allows their parts to be traced after they are recovered. They may need a microscope to decipher, but the microdots bear a code to enable whatever they are applied to, to be traced.

Tork Craft has supplied all the tools necessary for the Rhisotope Project team to carry out its invaluable work. “We thank Tork Craft for its unstinting support,” the team wrote on facebook.com/rhisotope. Without such help this would be nigh impossible to do. Great tools and great people to work with.”

“We're paving the way for a future where rhinos and other endangered species can thrive,” Ryan Hunt concludes. “Together, we are making a difference!”