Diergaarde Blijdorp Changes Focus
Rotterdam, October 19, 2023 - Diergaarde Blijdorp introduces a sharpened mission and vision for the future. In their new plans, they paint a clear picture of this course up to and including 2050. "As an organization, we look at the world around us with a deep sense of responsibility and realize that species conservation and nature restoration are our primary goals. We have the privilege to be at the helm and create measurable impact with our expertise and experience," says Erik Zevenbergen, Director of Diergaarde Blijdorp. The Master Plan can be downloaded at diergaardeblijdorp.nl.
Apart from being one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe for 166 years, Diergaarde Blijdorp assumes another, substantial role. “Our mission is simple yet powerful: we are committed to restoring nature. We understand that our planet is facing serious ecological challenges, and we feel a deep calling to turn the tide. The preservation of biodiversity, the restoration of ecosystems, and the promotion of sustainability form the core of our endeavor," explains Zevenbergen. “'Together we bring nature back to life' is therefore our new mission. Our Diergaarde can play a major role in this.”
Diergaarde Blijdorp initially focuses on ten animal and plant species for which they play a significant role in species conservation and nature restoration: the TEN. The goal is that by 2050, these species will no longer be listed as 'Endangered' on the IUCN Red List and that they have significantly contributed to this. For some animals, they have been the coordinator of the international population management program for years. For a few, they are one of the few in the world that keep the species. The future plans revolve around these ten species: red panda, Rüppell's vulture, pygmy hippopotamus, Lesser Antillean iguana, common skate, Asian elephant, Dalmatian pelican, surgeonfish, Annam leaf turtle, and Rwanda hot water lily. The Master Plan extensively explains the impact areas and concrete goals.
“The generation being born now will be the heir to the world that we are shaping today by 2100. It is our responsibility to take action now for nature and biodiversity so that our children can enjoy a healthy and balanced planet. Our current choices and efforts determine the legacy we leave for future generations. It is crucial that we are aware of the impact we have on the Earth and its precious ecosystems. The love for nature, which we deeply feel, we would like to pass on to others," says Zevenbergen.
The Royal Rotterdam Zoological Garden Foundation, better known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, has been one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe for 166 years. It is not only the most visited zoo in the Netherlands but has also been voted the most fun outing in the Netherlands for several years. In Diergaarde Blijdorp, you experience the world's nature and animals up close.