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Based on feedback from the previous meeting, the 2026 meeting will include more interactive formats, including workshops, discussion groups, and regional exchanges, to foster open dialogue and learning. Many participants expressed a desire for more time to share experiences and insights between associations, and we are committed to creating a programme that encourages open dialogue, reflection, and collective learning.
Another priority that emerged is the importance of bridging the gap between ex-situ and in-situ communities. Past participants highlighted the value of involving IUCN Specialist Group experts and in-situ conservation professionals who can help identify where and how the zoo and aquarium community can most effectively contribute to broader conservation efforts. We aim to integrate these voices into the 2026 programme and deepen our collaboration with IUCN and field-based conservation initiatives.
Day Programme
Day Programme
Joint TAG sessions: 26 - 27 May
Joint TAG sessions: 26 - 27 May
These will provide a forum for sharing knowledge, addressing challenges, and fostering collaboration across regions and taxonomic groups.
These will provide a forum for sharing knowledge, addressing challenges, and fostering collaboration across regions and taxonomic groups.
Tuesday,26 May 2026
Tuesday,26 May 2026
Session 1
Session 1
09:15
09:15
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12:30
12:30
Two Sides Of The Same Species:
Working As One!
Two Sides Of The Same Species:
Working As One!
Conservation often remains siloed - with ex situ plans and in situ efforts disconnected, which risks missing critical windows for action. Through shared discussion, this session urges a stronger embrace of the One Plan Approach, bringing together key perspectives to examine relationship-building, practical tools, and how TAGs and relevant conservation partners can work more effectively as one conservation network to bridge gaps and advance common goals.
Speakers:
Speakers:
Keynote - Dr Sonja Luz - CEO of Mandai Nature
As modern zoological institutions we often include species conservation in our Vision and Mission statements, presenting ourselves as “purpose driven” Zoo’s or Aquariums with the ambition of contributing to species conservation while creating meaningful experiences for our visitors.
As summarized and endorsed through the 2023 IUCN SSC position statement on the role of botanic gardens, aquariums, and zoos in species conservation, zoological institutions have an important role to play as many threatened species will simply not recover or stabilize from in-situ interventions alone.
Opportunities to create stronger linkages and strategies between ex-situ and in-situ stakeholders are therefore obvious, yet many zoological institutions still struggle to develop impactful conservation activities across their whole animal collections.
In this talk, and with a focus on Southeast Asia, I hope to share some of the challenges and opportunities for how we can better work as one!
Dr Eric Tsao - CEO of Conservation & Research Center, Taipei Zoo
Katharina Herrmann - Wildlife Conservation Coordinator, Zoo and Tierpark Berlin
David Barclay - Conservation Manager, The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), EAZA Felid TAG co-chair
Session 2
Session 2
13:30
13:30
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15:30
15:30
Looking At The Bigger Picture:
Bringing Together The 27PMG, 30CG, RtR And The CBD
Looking At The Bigger Picture:
Bringing Together The 27PMG, 30CG, RtR And The CBD
This session presents WAZA’s strategic approach to aligning with key global conservation frameworks, including Reverse the Red (RtR), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the IUCN, and explores how these efforts intersect and the opportunities they offer zoos and aquariums. Simultaneously, it will highlight using practical examples, how regional species prioritisation and effective population management can align with broader frameworks to maximise conservation outcomes.
Speakers:
Speakers:
Paula Cerdán - Head of Conservation and Animal Welfare, World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)
Nerissa Chao - Director, Asian Species Action Partnership (ASAP)
Dr Fiona Sach - Zoological Society of London, Zoo Conservation Impact Manager
Andrew Pulver - Vice President of Animal Care, John G Shedd Aquarium
Dr David M. Powell - Director of Research, Saint Louis Zoo
Tracy Rehse - AAWHC
Christian Olaciregui - ALPZA
Megan Brown - AZA
William Van Lint - EAZA
Ken Nakamura - JAZA
Wendy Chua - SEAZA
James Biggs - ZAA Australasia
Session 3
Session 3
16:00
16:00
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18:00
18:00
Doing More With Less:
Efficient Collaboration When Approaching Shared Resource Constraints
Doing More With Less:
Efficient Collaboration When Approaching Shared Resource Constraints
Zoos and aquariums operate with continuous constraints of time and people. This interactive session explores how different regions can collaborate more effectively when faced with limited resources. Through a moderated panel and audience discussion, participants will identify shared needs, opportunities for cross-regional support, and practical approaches to streamline processes, reduce resource stretching, and maximise and optimise collective impact and efforts.
Speakers:
Speakers:
Moderator - Dolf DeJong - CEO Toronto Zoo, WAZA CPM Chair
Tracy Rehse - AAWHC
Christian Olaciregui - ALPZA
John Andrews - AZA
Raymond Van der Meer - EAZA
Kazutoshi Takami - JAZA
Wendy Chua - SEAZA
James Biggs - ZAA Australasia
Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Session 4
Session 4
08:30
08:30
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10:30
10:30
Thriving Populations:
Tools Of The Trade When Navigating Space Limitations
Thriving Populations:
Tools Of The Trade When Navigating Space Limitations
Build knowledge and awareness on the different approaches to managing populations that are approaching or have reached capacity. Participate in a workshop to consider tools that can be used for population management. Identify actions to support evidence-based decision making that advances effective population management and welfare outcomes.
Speakers:
Speakers:
Dolf DeJong - Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Zoo
James Biggs - Director Conservation & Population Management, ZAA (Australasia)
Dr Alexandra (Ally) Palmer - Senior Research Fellow, Auckland University
Marcus Clauss - University of Zurich
Session 5
Session 5
11:00
11:00
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13:00
13:00
Data Without Borders:
Exploring Globally Used Tools To Strengthen Our Collaborative Impact
Data Without Borders:
Exploring Globally Used Tools To Strengthen Our Collaborative Impact
This session explores how zoos and aquariums can strengthen population management through shared datasets, collaborative science, and innovative tools. Together, we will highlight technical innovations across regions, identify gaps in cooperation, and discuss shared priorities for the future.
Speakers:
Speakers:
Paula Cerdán - Head of Conservation and Animal Welfare, World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)
Janno Weerman - Manager Living Collections, EEP coordinator and GSMP convenor for Red Panda, Royal Rotterdam Zoological & Botanical Gardens
Amanda Mazza, M.P.H - Data Manager/Registrar, Duke Lemur Center
Michael Sullivan - Assistant Curator, Duke Lemur Center
Rachel Bladow - Senior Population Biologist, AZA Population Management Center, Lincoln Park Zoo
Dr Boripat Siriaroonrat - Researcher, Mahidol University Thailand / IUCN SSC Biobanking Specialist Group
Session 6
Session 6
14:00
14:00
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15:30
15:30
The Overlooked Majority:
Innovative Strategies For Managing Under-Represented Species And Unique Population Challenges
The Overlooked Majority:
Innovative Strategies For Managing Under-Represented Species And Unique Population Challenges
This session examines practical and resourceful approaches to addressing complex population management scenarios - from herd dynamics to solitary care, bonded pairs, and high-fecundity taxa. Through diverse case studies and participant discussion, we will compare strategies, spark new ideas, and strengthen solutions for healthy populations across all taxa.
Speakers:
Speakers:
Salam Marikan - Population Sustainability Manager, Conservation and Science Department, Singapore Oceanarium
Michael McFadden - Wildlife Conservation Officer, Taronga Conservation Society Australia
Diana Koch - Curator and Malayan tapir EEP coordinator, Nuremberg Zoo
Dr Gina Ferrie - Vice President of Collections and Conservation, Zoo Atlanta
Jodi Buchecker - Species Management Officer, Monarto Safari Park, ZAA Greater Bilby Species Coordinator and Australian Mammal TAG CoConvenor
Session 7
Session 7
16:00
16:00
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18:00
18:00
Your Voice, Your Agenda:
An Open Forum For Discussing Regional Needs, Barriers, and Opportunities
Your Voice, Your Agenda:
An Open Forum For Discussing Regional Needs, Barriers, and Opportunities
This open space session puts you in the lead. Based on topics submitted on whiteboards at the start of the JTAG Meeting, participants will gather in small groups to explore shared challenges and opportunities. A flexible, interactive forum built by you, for you, to exchange experiences, insights, and practical solutions.
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