CAZA is active on many fronts: from inspecting and accrediting zoological facilities, to identifying and implementing best practices in animal welfare, to partnering with government and animal welfare agencies in relocating animals. But in the simplest terms, CAZA’s work consists of one thing: answering the question, “why zoos matter”.
Answering that question lets us engage in conversations about the role of zoos and aquariums in an increasingly urbanized society and their role in connecting people to nature—a role that has never been more important than it is today.
Zoos and aquariums the world over are evolving. Where once many saw their role simply as exhibitors of animals, accredited institutions the world over today share the belief that in addition to a moral and professional responsibility for the welfare of the animals in their care, they also have a responsibility to protect the planet’s biodiversity through public engagement, conservation and research.
Zoos and aquariums can be the catalyst that inspires a new generation of conservationists to carry out more research, rehabilitate more habitats, reintroduce more species and educate more people.
*Watch the video to see for yourself why zoos matter.