Richest nations ‘exporting extinction’ with demand for beef, palm oil and timber

Consumption in wealthy countries including US and UK is responsible for 13% of global forest loss beyond their borders, study finds

The world's wealthiest nations are exporting extinction" by destroying 15 times more biodiversity internationally than within their own borders, research shows.

Most wildlife habitats are being destroyed in countries with tropical forest, according to the study which looked at how wealthy countries' demand for products such as beef, palm oil, timber and soya beans is destroying biodiversity hotspots elsewhere.