The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), the global alliance of regional associations, national federations and institutions, has revealed that Taronga Zoo, Sydney will host the 79th Annual WAZA Conference on 3-7 November 2024.
The host venue was selected by a WAZA Council vote, and Taronga Zoo was chosen out of applications from WAZA member organisations across the globe.
Dr MartÃn Zordan, WAZA CEO, says: “Taronga Zoo’s commitment to conservation, education, and animal welfare makes them the perfect host for the 79th Annual WAZA Conference, which aims to promote global efforts in protecting and preserving our natural world.
“WAZA conferences are an ideal opportunity to bring leaders in the zoo, aquarium and conservation communities together to discuss pertinent issues within our community and examine how WAZA members can act on global issues such as sustainable palm oil, plastic pollution, the illegal wildlife trade and species conservation.”
Sharing expertise
Taronga Zoo is located in Cammeraigal Country, overlooking Sydney Harbour. It offers a beautiful and inspiring setting which illustrates the importance of wildlife conservation. The zoo’s team of experts and conservationists will be taking part in the WAZA conference and will share their expertise and research.
“In recent years Taronga Zoo has opened three new wildlife precincts, an Institute of Science and Learning and a fully integrated accommodation offering,” explains Simon Duffy, executive director of Taronga Zoo. “We are excited to share these and our work across sustainability, education, conservation, and guest experience. Sydney is also at its best in November.”
Delegates will include like-minded individuals, institutions and experts from across the globe, with excellent opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and nurturing collaboration.
The 2023 WAZA conference is taking place 8-12 October in San Diego.
WAZA unveiled a new strategy earlier this summer. The association has a long history of promoting the best practices in animal welfare and conservation in collaboration with the global community of zoos and aquariums. It began working on a new strategy last year, and its new vision seeks to better support its members.
