The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) (formerly the Federation of Zoological Gardens of Great Britain and Ireland) is a conservation, education and scientific wildlife charity (Registered Charity Number: 248553) founded in 1966 out of a mutual desire within the zoo and aquarium community to see sound principles and practices of animal management widely adopted in the British Isles and Ireland. Today BIAZA is the professional organisation representing the zoo and aquarium community.
To be a powerful force in the care and conservation of the natural world
Is reflected in its Mission:
BIAZA is a professional organisation which represents its members and promotes the values of good zoos and aquariums. It leads and supports its members:
To inspire people to help conserve the natural world
To participate in effective co-operative conservation programmes
To deliver the highest quality environmental education, training and research
To achieve the highest standards of animal care and welfare in zoos, aquariums and in the wild
BIAZA believes that:
The natural world is intrinsically precious and the biodiversity of animals, plants, habitats and people must be sustained and protected
Zoos and aquariums are uniquely placed to inspire and educate people to understand the interdependence of all living things, and to make changes in people’s behaviour which will have a positive impact on wildlife
Through integrated science, education and conservation programmes, zoos and aquariums can be a powerful force for wildlife conservatio
The global network of zoos and aquariums enables effective partnerships with each other, as well as with governments, other conservation agencies and local communities at home and overseas
We can ensure that our members deliver the highest standards of animal welfare, as well as excellence in environmental education, scientific research and visitor experience
IAZA members have to do more than follow legislation as laid down in the Zoo Licensing Act (Amendment, England and Wales) Regulations 2002. In addition to following the Secretary of States Standards of Modern Zoo Practice (which are amongst the highest in the world) Member collections must undertake work in the field of animal welfare, conservation, education and research under the terms of the Constitution and Codes of Practice of the organisation.
