The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, and institutions, is reminding WAZA Voting Members that nominations for the 2026 WAZA Awards are currently open.
WAZA Voting Members (both Association and Institution Members) are encouraged to nominate individuals and institutions that demonstrate leadership, excellence, and dedication within the global zoo and aquarium community.
The WAZA Awards honour individuals who actively promote animal welfare, conservation, and environmental sustainability within their organisations, while also shaping the profession's future direction and credibility globally.
The four award winners will be recognised at the Gala Dinner during the 81st WAZA Annual Conference, scheduled for 25–29 October 2026 in Cologne, Germany.
2026 WAZA Awards categories
Established in 1996, the Heini Hediger Award is WAZA’s top recognition for individual excellence.
Named after the Swiss biologist known as the “father of zoo biology," it honours an individual who has shown outstanding leadership and dedicated efforts in animal welfare, conservation, sustainability, education, and the development of the zoo and aquarium fields.
Launched in 2016, the WAZA Conservation Award honours an institution for its exceptional and comprehensive conservation efforts, which have well-defined goals and tangible positive impacts on species, ecosystems, and communities.
This award exemplifies WAZA’s holistic conservation philosophy, covering both in situ and ex situ initiatives.
Founded in 2018, the Environmental Sustainability Award recognises institutions that showcase innovative and exceptional environmental sustainability efforts, promoting responsible practices and a long-term commitment to sustainability.
Introduced in 2025, the WAZA Animal Welfare Award honours institutions that adopt a comprehensive and holistic approach to animal welfare. It applauds organisations that lead with science-based welfare practices, integrate welfare into their culture, and actively promote positive animal welfare throughout the broader zoo and aquarium community.
To be eligible, nominations must be submitted by a WAZA Voting Member (Association or Institution Member) in good standing and seconded by at least one official representative of another WAZA Voting Member.
Self-nominations are not permitted for the Heini Hediger Award; nominations must be submitted by another WAZA Voting Member.
The Conservation Award and Environmental Sustainability Award permit self-nominations by WAZA Institution Members, provided the nomination is seconded by another WAZA Voting Member.
The Animal Welfare Award requires self-nomination by a WAZA Institution Member and must be seconded by both the organisation’s director/CEO (or equivalent) and another WAZA Voting Member.
For more information, please click here.
Last month, WAZA announced its new International Studbook (ISB) Framework, reflecting a major milestone for global population management and cross-regional partnerships.
Charlotte Coates is blooloop's editor. She is from Brighton, UK and previously worked as a librarian. She has a strong interest in arts, culture and information and graduated from the University of Sussex with a degree in English Literature. Charlotte can usually be found either with her head in a book or planning her next travel adventure.
