CAZA Committees

The Audit & Finance Committee at Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) is dedicated to overseeing the financial health and sustainability of the organization. This committee ensures that financial practices are transparent, ethical, and aligned with CAZA’s mission and strategic goals. It provides governance and oversight on budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and reporting.

The Governance Committee at Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) is tasked with ensuring that the organization adheres to the highest standards of governance. This committee is responsible for developing and overseeing policies and practices that promote effective leadership, accountability, and transparency within CAZA. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and efficacy of the Board of Directors and its processes.

The Ethics and Compliance Committee (ECC) at Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) is responsible for addressing complaints from members, the public, or government and regulatory agencies concerning a CAZA member’s alleged failure to adhere to the organization’s Accreditation Standards, Code of Professional Ethics and/or policies.

The CAZA Conservation Committee is a standing committee of the CAZA National Office.

It is responsible for increasing and optimizing wild animal and plant conservation actions within CAZA institutions, connecting CAZA institutions with similar conservation goals/species, communicating CAZA institutions’ conservation actions to National Office, Board of Directors, Education and Communication Committees, and connecting with NGO and governmental agencies in order to develop collaboration.

To learn more about the CAZA Conservation Committee, click here.

The CAZA Education Committee is a standing committee of the CAZA National Office.

Its role is to assist the CAZA National Office in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities related to strategic planning and capacity building for education. This committee serves in an advisory capacity, providing insight and guidance on the adequacy and effectiveness of the connection between CAZA’s vision, mission, values, mandate statements, and the role of education. Recommendations from the education committee inform CAZA National’s educational standards and policies to ensure the delivery of high-quality educational programming in accredited institutions across Canada.

To learn more about the Education Committee work, click here.

The Awards and Recognition Committee at Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) is dedicated to celebrating and acknowledging the outstanding contributions and achievements of individuals and organizations within the zoo and aquarium community. This committee is responsible for developing and overseeing a comprehensive awards program that recognizes excellence in various areas, including animal care, conservation, education, and leadership.

To learn more about the Awards of Excellence, click here.

The Animal Movement Committee at Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) oversees the ethical and responsible transfer, loan, or exchange of animals between member institutions. The committee ensures that all animal movements adhere to CAZA’s standards for animal welfare, conservation, and species sustainability. Their role includes reviewing and approving animal transfers, ensuring compliance with legal regulations, and promoting collaboration among institutions to support breeding programs, conservation efforts, and the well-being of animals in human care.

The Policy Committee at Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) is responsible for developing, reviewing, and updating policies that guide the organization and its member institutions. The committee ensures that CAZA's policies align with best practices in animal welfare, conservation, education, and ethical standards. Their work supports the continuous improvement of operational guidelines and helps members maintain compliance with CAZA’s accreditation standards. The committee also collaborates with stakeholders to address emerging issues and ensure that policies reflect the evolving needs of zoos, aquariums, and the animals in their care.