Design Plan for the “Zoo of the Future”

(eap) Zoo Zurich aims to evolve into a “zoo of the future” by 2050 (read “A World for Animals and People” in EAP 1/2022). In order to achieve the intended progress in nature and species conservation, a new planning framework is required. The new cantonal design plan, developed for this purpose by Zoo Zurich together with the Building Department of the Canton of Zurich and the City of Zurich, is being made available for public consultation as of today and, following the review of any objections submitted, is ultimately to be formally adopted.

Ein neuer kantonaler Gestaltungsplan für den Zoo Zürich ist ab heute für die Öffentlichkeit einsehbar. © Grafik: Zoo Zürich, Region Five Media A key element of the plan is the construction of an underground parking facility to enhance the surrounding streetscape and promote biodiversity. At present, around 1,200 parking spaces for zoo visitors are distributed around the zoo and in the adjacent neighbourhoods. The plan is to remove these above-ground parking spaces and relocate them to a new parking facility underneath an existing sports field. According to the zoo, removing the surface parking spaces would also make it possible to extend the tram line to the upper station of the planned zoo cable car, which is currently still subject to approval and legal proceedings (see EAP news of 11 Dec 2023).

Rendering Pantanal Volieren © Zoo Zürich, Region Five Media In future, the approximately 27-hectare zoo is to comprise a total of eleven habitats, each representing the zoo’s conservation commitment in natural habitats around the world. Each habitat is intended to set new standards in animal husbandry, contribute to the conservation of endangered species and provide guests with memorable encounters with wildlife, inspiring them to support the protection of global biodiversity. The “Pantanal Wetlands”, designed for endangered South American species, are currently under development. The planned “Ndoki Forest” is to provide a habitat for African species such as the Western lowland gorilla and, as a near-natural environment, will even offer opportunities for the animals to climb real trees. Further planned areas include the “Sumatra Rainforest” for endangered species such as orangutans and a “Seacoast” habitat for penguins.

Zoo Director Dr Severin Dressen explains: “We want to continue inspiring our guests to protect biodiversity and, as a flagship of a modern, scientifically managed zoological institution, contribute to nature and species conservation. To achieve this, the zoo must be able to continue developing its approach to animal husbandry. We therefore depend on a binding new design plan in order to realise the new habitats envisaged in our 2050 development plan. The adoption of the new cantonal design plan for Zoo Zurich will lay the foundations for protecting biodiversity worldwide, maintaining the highest standards of animal husbandry, securing Zurich’s position as home to an internationally leading zoo and providing lasting relief for the surrounding neighbourhood.” ■