Korkeasaari is one of the founding members of this 30-year-old organization, and its membership now includes more than 400 zoos and aquariums. In Finland, in addition to Korkeasaari, EAZA members include Ähtäri Zoo and Ranua Zoo. Korkeasaari is actively involved in EAZA’s work, for example in the coordination of conservation-breeding programs (EEP) of 35 species.
“International cooperation is essential in the protection of animal species. Through cooperation, we protect endangered species, find the best practices in animal care and share information about biodiversity. We welcome our guests to Helsinki to learn and be inspired by our work,” says Sanna HellströmCEO of Korkeasaari.
During the five intensive days of the conference, experts will share their expertise with lectures, information sessions and workshops focusing on different themes. The joint lectures deal with zoo communication, animal welfare and the results of the two-year conservation campaign. In the evenings, conference participants have the opportunity to network through a social program and get to know Korkeasaari Zoo and Helsinki.
The conference will host almost 900 representatives of zoos, who will gather at the Marina Congress Center in Katajanokka on September 12-16, 2023. The conference starts with opening speeches at Myfanwy GriffithDirector of EAZA and CEO of Korkeasaari Sanna Hellström. Pekka Haavisto and Sirpa Pietikäinen also share their greetings at the opening. The main events, including the opening ceremony, will be streamed on EAZA’s Facebook page.
For many representatives of the zoo, this visit to Finland is the first, so it offers an opportunity to get to know the country’s culture and raise the ecological footprint of the event. The conference program has changed, the materials are mostly recycled or rented, and the menu has plant-based options in addition to fish and game meat, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
HT
Source: The Nordic Page