The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has acclaimed the conservation work of a zoos and aquariums in an unprecedented statement of support from the global authority on nature and conservation. Today (October 12), BIAZA has released a list of top conservation projects being undertaken by zoos and aquariums in the UK and Ireland, to mark the statement.
BIAZA, the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, has welcomed the statement as recognition for the world-leading conservation work of its member zoos and aquariums. However, the association warns there is much more work to be done to create a world where nature can thrive.
This IUCN SSC Position Statement on the role of Botanic Gardens, Aquariums and Zoos follows years of extensive and collaborative work and public consultation. It recognises the extent and importance of the contribution of zoos and aquariums in the conservation of animals, fungi and plants. It points to how zoos and aquariums maintain high standards of care, conservation, education and research to conserve and restore species.
BIAZA, which represents over 120 of the top zoos and aquariums in Britain and Ireland, has published a list of five exciting conservation projects that demonstrates the statement:
A pioneering vaccine for elephants – Chester Zoo
The elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) is a major threat to the long-term survival of the endangered Asian elephant. The elephants at Chester Zoo are part of a world-first vaccine trial for this terrible disease. This conservation work is only possible because Chester Zoo provide dedicated care to a family of Asian elephants at the Zoo.
This ground-breaking new vaccination has been developed as a result of a long-term collaboration led by the Zoo and scientists at the University of Surrey. Chester Zoo’s elephant care experts are leading the first vaccine pilot study, supported by a host of other major conservation zoos in the UK and Ireland, including Dublin Zoo, Whipsnade Zoo, Blackpool Zoo and Woburn Safari Park.
The complete report can be read here
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Posted On: 12/10/2023