Hundreds of animal experts from across the zoo world will take part in a major international conference that will form part of Edinburgh Zoo’s centenary celebrations. 

The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) will hold its annual conference for the first time in Edinburgh in 2013. 

Owned by The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) which was founded in March 1909, Edinburgh Zoo first opened its doors to the public in July 1913. 

One of Europe's leading centres of animal conservation, education and research Edinburgh Zoo works collectively with many other zoos and conservation agencies in the UK, Europe and around the world in co-ordinated conservation programmes, to help ensure the survival of many threatened animal species. 

Research by the Edinburgh Convention Bureau (ECB) identified the EAZA conference as a suitable event for the city and supported the Zoo in a successful bid to host the meeting. 

An estimated 600 EAZA members from up to 35 countries will attend the annual event which will be staged over 4 days in September 2013 at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. The event will deliver £1.1 million to the local economy. 

Formed in 1992, EAZA’s mission is to facilitate cooperation within the European zoo and aquarium community towards the goals of education, research and conservation.  

David Windmill, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Zoo, said: “Everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is thrilled to be hosting the EAZA conference. We always welcome the chance to meet with our European colleagues to share and discuss vital animal conservation issues.  It is particularly appropriate that this conference coincides with our centenary celebrations and we are grateful to Edinburgh Convention Bureau colleagues for their support in winning this event.” 

Sue Stuart, Chief Executive of ECB, said: ”The decision by EAZA to bring its conference to Edinburgh for the first time during the Zoo’s centenary year is recognition of the excellent work our Zoo carries out in the fields of wildlife conservation and education.” 

The EAZA conference is one 19 new events confirmed for Edinburgh within the last month that will be held between 2010 and 2013. 

Between them these events will attract up to 3375 delegates and inject £3.2 million into the local economy.

Ends – release 04 March 2010 

Issued on behalf of ECB by fs communications 

For further information contact:

Frank Sullivan Telephone:  07718660122

Email: frank.sullivan@btconnect.com