The value of zoos for species and society: The need for a new model
Sarah Louise Spooner, Susan L. Walker, Simon D. Dowell, Andrew Moss
Abstract
Zoos and aquaria were founded in a world fundamentally different from today, and yet, the need for such conservation organisations could not be stronger. We are currently in a climate and biodiversity crisis, with unprecedented species loss, exacerbated by human actions. The mission of many conservation zoos is to prevent such extinctions through integrated species conservation actions. The role of zoos has historically been categorised as fitting within the four pillars of conservation, education, research, and recreation. These ‘pillars’ no longer align with present day conservation zoos which provide a vast spectrum of services for species and society. However, in the absence of a new model, the value of zoos has been underestimated and under-supported. We propose a new model and assessment framework for viewing conservation zoos, with the zoo at the centre of a web of conservation and societal activities. We acknowledge zoos' potential as conservation hubs able to provide advice and skills to communities and policy makers. We also reflect on the criticisms and conservation challenges faced by zoos which may prevent them fulfilling their full potential and how these might impact their future role.