Zoos for biodiversity: Annual conference in Berlin discusses solutions!

Zoos for biodiversity: Annual conference in Berlin discusses solutions!

The annual conference of the Association of Zoological Gardens (VdZ) opened in Berlin on June 19, 2025 and will last until June 21. The aim of this important event is to discuss the role of zoos in species protection and the preservation of biodiversity. Zoo experts from Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Spain are taking part in the conference, which will show how zoos are committed to protecting biological diversity. What is particularly noteworthy is that the 70 member zoos of the VdZ care for over 163,000 wild animals and attract more than 42 million visitors annually, as ots.at reports.

In total, the VdZ member zoos invest around 11 million euros annually in over 150 species protection projects worldwide. These investments are critical as animal and plant species worldwide are disappearing at an alarming rate, with catastrophic consequences for food, water, climate and health. The managing director of the VdZ, Volker Homes, therefore demands that the new federal government take concrete steps to recognize and support the zoos' commitment. The required measures include the anchoring of zoos in the National Biodiversity Strategy and the promotion of conservation breeding programs, which should be recognized as a systemically relevant contribution to species protection, according to zoo-leipzig.de.

Focal points of the annual conference

At the VdZ annual conference, the topic of “species protection” is the focus of discussions. Jochen Flasbarth, State Secretary in the Federal Ministry for the Environment, emphasizes the important role that zoos play in protecting biological diversity. The President of the VdZ, Prof. Dr. Jörg Junhold, emphasizes the need for common strategies and financial resources. In addition, the VdZ Zoo and Wildlife Forum will bring together decision-makers from various areas on June 19th to discuss strategic issues in species protection, animal welfare and education.

Dr. Andreas Knieriem, host of the annual conference, points to the successes of reintroduction projects in recent years. The importance of zoological institutions for the preservation of biodiversity was even recognized in the federal government's coalition agreement. The loss of biodiversity must be urgently addressed as it is crucial to our living conditions.

The responsibility of zoos in species protection

The role of zoos in species conservation is becoming increasingly important, particularly as they provide protection for endangered species. According to an analysis from the Scientific Perspective, zoos contribute to biodiversity by implementing targeted breeding programs and conservation projects. They provide species-appropriate enclosures and promote the emotional connection between visitors and the animals they care for. A report on das-wissen.de shows that 82 percent of Germans support zoos, which underlines the relevance of these institutions in society.

However, the challenges facing zoos are great - from limited living space to high costs and public perception, there are numerous aspects that need to be overcome. Many critics question the ethics of keeping animals in captivity. Nevertheless, scientific research has shown that zoos have been able to make significant progress through their conservation initiatives and strategies, including international breeding programs.

In summary, it can be said that the annual meeting of the VdZ offers an important opportunity to actively promote species protection and to develop new perspectives for future cooperation at national and international levels. Zoos are not only places of education and entertainment, but also crucial players in the fight against the loss of biological diversity.