Greetings
Dear colleagues and friends,
as you may know the United Nations declared 2010 to be the "International Year of Biodiversity". The world is invited to take action in 2010 in safeguarding the variety of life on earth. What could be a better theme for our upcoming WAZA conference in Cologne (Germany), in the center of Europe, than: "Biodiversity is Life: the Role of Zoos and Aquariums in Biodiversity Conservation."
We all work consistently with our institutions not only on displaying and breeding animals but with an increased focus on saving the biodiversity on our planet. Ex situ- and in situ-projects and of course education and exhibit design are our successful tools. Yes, we can!
It is our hope that this WAZA conference 2010 will make a difference, a big step forward concerning the need and relevance of Zoological gardens and Aquariums worldwide in general and concerning the protection of wildlife while focusing on biodiversity in particular. Millions of people come to our institutions on a regular term to see and learn about wildlife. In my opinion Zoological gardens are today the greatest non-governmental educational institutions worldwide and of course centers of expertise for nature conservation.
With your attendance you can demonstrate the world how we professionally operate on a global level and that we all agree in the importance of saving fauna and flora. Therefore we are looking forward to welcome as many visitors and participants as possible to the 65th WAZA conference in our lovely city of Cologne, situated directly on the river Rhine. An interesting program including well-known speakers and a diversified social program for the entertainment of you and your partners is waiting for you. We make a big effort so that you will feel home at Cologne.
We would be proud to be your host in 2010, the year of our 150th anniversary, in which we will open our "hippodom", an African river habitat where you can experience crocodiles and hippos under water - our brandnew attraction.
Looking forward to see you all in Cologne, all the best
Theo Pagel
CEO, Cologne Zoo