Back in the swing of things after an inspiring week at the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) conference ??
As a first-time attendee, I found the experience both fascinating and eye-opening. While I've previously explored the zoo world as a guest and discussed it from a digital perspective, learning about the inner workings of a zoo, and witnessing firsthand the sheer passion EAZA members have for animals was something else entirely. It really highlighted the deep level of care and consideration that goes into running a zoo ??
With the focus firmly (and rightly) on the animals, it was clear that digital solutions weren’t top of mind for many zoologists, vets, and keepers. While many zoos were embracing digital, I also encountered some skepticism ??
A few expressed concerns that an app might distract visitors from the core zoo experience—especially with younger guests who typically spend more time on their phones ??
My response to this was simple: Look at it from a different perspective. Zoos often share similar goals—sustainability, education, and conservation.
Like it or not, smartphones are here to stay, so why not use them as a channel to achieve those very goals? ??
If visitors turn to their phones during downtime, use them to promote your mission. Engage them with content that enhances their visit—providing information about talks, educational content, or behind-the-scenes insights. It's an opportunity to inspire the next generation, one that many zoos are already using. Instead of thinking of an app as something that detracts from the zoo experience, it could be a tool that enriches it ??????
Once I shared this perspective, it sparked a lot of great conversations about how digital tools like the Attractions.io platform can align with what zoos aim to achieve. I can't wait to carry those discussions through in the coming weeks. ??
Lastly, a huge thank you to Zoo Leipzig GmbH for hosting! It’s an incredible zoo and a hidden gem for many—Gondwanaland is also seriously slept on in the UK and worth a spot on everyone’s bucket list! ????
#ZooConservation #DigitalInnovation #Sustainability #EAZA2024 #ConservationMatters #FutureOfZoos #ZooTech #WildlifeEducation #Gondwanaland #ZooLeipzig