The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is proud to welcome a new Affiliate Member to the global zoo and aquarium community – Fundação Zoológico de São Paulo (CECFau – FZSP). With over 60 years of experience and a focus on preserving and restoring ecosystems through research, the FZSP is a valuable addition to the WAZA family.
Established in 1958, the FZSP has made significant contributions to the international zoo community through its efforts in preserving and restoring ecosystems. Its recent remodel, which focused on Research and Conservation (CECFau), demonstrates its commitment to making a positive impact on both society and biodiversity.
Patrícia Locosque Ramos, Director of Technical and Scientific Affairs at FZSP, expressed her excitement about the organization’s re-entry into WAZA, stating, “We are pleased to rejoin WAZA.” The FZSP is also a member of the AZAB – Associação de Zoológicos e Aquários do Brasil and APAZA – Associação Paulista de Zoológicos, and in 2018 was recognized as a Scientific and Technological Institution of the State of São Paulo for its innovative work in the field of biotechnology, research, and innovation.
WAZA CEO, Dr Martín Zordan, welcomed the FZSP to the WAZA community, stating, “WAZA is pleased to welcome the Fundação Zoológico de São Paulo as our newest Affiliate Member. It is our endeavor to be truly representative. Having our membership expand to include more members from the Global South will help us be more inclusive and in turn help our members learn from diverse experiences and expertise.”
The CECFau/FZSP is dedicated to improving the welfare and quality of life of animals under human care, including their standards of well-being. It continues to improve techniques that can improve the health of animals through annual preventive management, as well as the supply of diagnostics and veterinary treatments.
The addition of the Fundação Zoológico de São Paulo to the WAZA community will provide new opportunities for collaboration and learning, as well as bring a unique perspective to the global zoo and aquarium community.