Why conservationists are making rhinos radioactive

MIT Technology Review

by Matthew Ponsford

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Conservationists are turning to innovative technologies, including artificial intelligence and radiation tagging, to combat the $20 billion illegal wildlife trade, one of the world’s largest criminal enterprises. Poaching and smuggling remain persistent despite efforts to protect species like rhinos, sharks, and apes, with sophisticated networks making it difficult for law enforcement to disrupt these activities. However, advancements in tech are offering new hope for conservationists, enabling them to detect illegal goods, trace smugglers, and prevent poaching at the source. One notable example is the Rhisotope Project, where South African researchers have embedded rhinos with radioactive isotopes to make their horns detectable by radiation monitors. This approach avoids the risks and costs of dehorning, a traditional anti-poaching method that requires frequent sedation and stress for rhinos. The project uses low-level radioactive pellets placed in the animals’ horns, which can be detected by existing border security devices like those used at airports and shipping terminals. Testing has shown this method is effective, with officials identifying hidden horns during scans of cargo containers. The use of AI and digital forensics has also played a significant role in combating wildlife crime. Interpol’s Operation Thunder 2025 utilized these tools to coordinate global law enforcement efforts, resulting in the seizure of tens of thousands of live animals from 134 countries. Such advancements highlight how technology is empowering conservationists to outsmart criminal networks and protect endangered species more effectively than ever before. For readers interested in AI and tech’s role in conservation, this breakthrough underscores the potential for innovative solutions to tackle some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. By leveraging cutting-edge tools, scientists and law enforcement are gaining a much-needed edge in their fight against wildlife trafficking, offering a glimmer of hope for achieving the UN’s goal of ending such trade by 2030.

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Originally published on MIT Technology Review on 2/24/2026