Will the EC Zoos Directive increase the conservation value of zoo research?

Abstract

Article 9 of the Convention on Biological Diversity 1992 requires parties to adopt measures for the ex situ conservation of biodiversity. Within the European Union this has been implemented by the Zoos Directive. The Directive requires zoos and aquariums to adopt a conservation role. Zoos may comply with the Directive by undertaking research from which conservation benefits accrue. However, most current zoo research is concerned with behaviour, environmental enrichment, nutrition and reproduction, and is therefore largely irrelevant to ex situ conservation. It is unlikely that zoos will increase their output of conservation relevant research because most do not have appropriate resources. Furthermore, as an alternative to undertaking research, a zoo may comply with the Directive by engaging in training, information exchange or captive breeding. Most, if not all, zoos already engage in at least one of these activities and therefore may comply with the Directive by doing nothing.