The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is uniting behind the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including protecting at least 30 percent of the planet by 2030 (30×30).

AZA members, located in 13 countries, currently invest more than $250 million annually in field conservation, making it one of the largest funders for biodiversity globally. In addition, these zoos and aquariums inspire and engage more than 200 million visitors a year to care about and take action for animals and their ecosystems.

AZA and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) have joined together to unite the entire AZA community behind making 30×30 a reality, along with the other agreed-upon targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Those goals and targets include retaining and restoring ecological integrity of ecosystems; saving threatened and endangered species; ending illegal and unsustainable wildlife trade; and preventing future pandemics.

More than 100 AZA-accredited members have already signed a declaration uniting behind efforts to end and reverse the world’s catastrophic decline of biodiversity. The declaration reads in part:

• “With the power of the millions who support our parks annually, we fully commit to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, especially its goals and targets to halt and reverse the decline in biodiversity.”
• “We will strive to make it a reality by working globally with governments, other conservation organizations, civil society, Indigenous peoples, local communities, businesses, and other stakeholders.”
• “We will continue to work to ensure that all our visitors and members understand the importance of protecting, conserving, and restoring both species and their habitats, and achieving all of the targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework. We will strive to find ways to enlist their help and support.”

The AZA is one of the world’s largest conservation organizations, with more than 240 accredited zoos and aquariums in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. AZA members are dedicated to the highest standards of animal care and welfare, and to advancing science and conservation.

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework is a set of goals and targets that were adopted by the 196 parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in December 2022. The framework is a comprehensive plan to address the global biodiversity crisis, and to ensure that nature is conserved and sustainably used for the benefit of people and the planet.

The 30×30 goal is to protect at least 30 percent of the planet’s lands and oceans by 2030. This is a critical goal for halting and reversing the decline of biodiversity, and for building a more sustainable future for all.

The AZA’s commitment to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework is a significant step forward for conservation. AZA members are uniquely positioned to help achieve the goals of the framework, through their work in field conservation, education, and advocacy.