Ep 1. Warlords of Ivory

In season 8 of Explorer, viewers are taken on a journey around the world to explore some of the most pressing issues facing our planet today. In the first episode, Warlords of Ivory, the series takes a closer look at the illegal ivory trade and the impact it is having on African elephants.

Led by National Geographic's investigative journalist, Bryan Christy, the episode is a harrowing and eye-opening account of the lengths people will go to in order to get their hands on ivory. Christy goes undercover to infiltrate the ivory trade, following a trail of clues that leads him from Africa to Asia. Along the way, he meets with smugglers, traders and even ivory carvers, learning the intricate methods they use to transport, sell and shape ivory into objects of desire.

With demand for ivory at an all-time high, Christy discovers a complex network of dealers, middle-men and corrupt officials, all fueling a multimillion-dollar industry. He meets with warlords who are using ivory as a means of financing their brutal campaigns, and elephant poachers who are willing to risk their lives to supply the trade.

The episode is a sobering reminder of the devastating impact the ivory trade is having on Africa's elephant population. With the number of elephants in Africa plummeting from 1.3 million to just 419,000 over the last century, Christy's journey is a call to action for all of us to do our part in protecting these magnificent creatures.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of elephants in their natural habitats, as well as exclusive interviews with people who are working tirelessly to save them. From conservationists to park rangers, scientists and animal welfare groups, the episode is a celebration of the tireless efforts being made to protect Africa's elephants.

Explorer: Warlords of Ivory is a gripping and thought-provoking documentary, highlighting the devastating impact of the ivory trade. With first-hand accounts from people who are on the front lines of this battle, it is a timely reminder of the importance of protecting precious wildlife for generations to come.

Overall, the series promises to be an exciting and informative exploration of some of the most pressing issues facing our planet today. With a focus on scientific discoveries, environmental challenges, and global issues, it is sure to be a must-watch for anyone interested in the state of our world and what we can do to improve it.