Are our zoos still up to date? Experts call for urgent change!

Are our zoos still up to date? Experts call for urgent change!

The future of zoos is very important and is always controversially discussed. In Thuringia, with numerous zoos and zoos such as the Altenburger Inselzoo and the zoo in Gera, the discourse is particularly lively. Jan Schleinitz, the new director of the Thuringian Zoo Park in Erfurt, emphasizes that the keeping conditions have improved significantly since the first zoo opened in Berlin 181 years ago. Nevertheless, the question of whether today's zoos are still relevant is still relevant. Sustainability and the protection of endangered species are the big issues of our time. According to MDR there are different views on the function and role of zoos in modern society.

Animal protection organizations such as Peta express sharp criticism and call for the abolition of zoos. They argue that these facilities are primarily focused on visitor numbers rather than effective species conservation. Dag Encke, zoo director of the Nuremberg Zoo, explains that zoos are only relevant if there are habitats for animals. As animal inspector Steffen Horn emphasizes, the educational mission of zoos is a central task that is primarily intended to introduce children to nature.

The role of zoos in species conservation

But what do zoos actually do in the area of ​​species protection? Experts analyze the role of zoo facilities and come to the conclusion that they play an outstanding role as protective facilities for endangered animals. According to Das Wissen the challenges for zoos are enormous: high costs, limited living space and at the same time public pressure require creative solutions. Species protection projects and targeted breeding programs are necessary so that endangered species do not simply disappear from the scene.

This is where a positive aspect comes into play: Zoos like the Erfurt Zoo not only collect donations for projects in the animals' natural habitats, but also make an active contribution to raising awareness among the population through educational work. It is also important that zoological gardens increase their efforts to protect species and support more local facilities. According to Rene Glaser from the Thuringian State Animal Protection Association, a reassessment of the role of zoos is essential because, despite their efforts, many species remain threatened with extinction.

A look into the future

The annual meeting of the Association of Zoological Gardens (VdZ) in June 2025 in Berlin will deal in detail with the role of zoos in species protection and biodiversity. With over 163,000 wild animals in member zoos alone and annual investments of around 11 million euros in more than 150 species conservation projects worldwide, it is clear that zoos play a crucial role in protecting our biological diversity. Jochen Flasbarth, State Secretary in the Federal Environment Ministry, and VdZ President Prof. Dr. Jörg Junhold calls for stronger cooperation and clear responsibilities for species protection.

Zoos are more than just recreational facilities; they are also schools for life. Preserving biodiversity and ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the wonders of wildlife requires the commitment of society as a whole. Collaboration between zoos, authorities and conservation organizations will be crucial to meeting the challenges of the future.