Join us in Kronberg!

Dear colleagues,

dear participants of the EAZA Conservation Forum,

dear guests,

in the year of the zoo´s 70th anniversary I am welcoming you in Kronberg. Board and staff are very excited and proud that we were chosen to host the EAZA Conservation Forum 2026.

Conservation is quite essential for the acceptance of Zoological gardens. Starting already in the late 1950´s the founder of Opel-Zoo, Dr. Georg von Opel, made an exceptional conservation effort by establishing a herd of the at that time thought to be extinct Mesopotamian Fallow deer, including the financial support of three expeditions to former Persia, today Iran, and bringing three individuals of this deer species to Kronberg. These animals developed until 2026 to a relatively stable world stock, of which a few are exhibited in our zoo.

Around 1.900 animals from more than 220 species are presented today in a unique matter, following the spirit of the zoo founder Dr. Georg von Opel, who stated already in 1956, that the animals at Opel-Zoo should be exhibited in social groups, in nature-like exhibits and, where-ever possible, without bars between visitors and animals – quite a vision for that time!

Today Opel-Zoo supports more than 10 conservation projects, not only locally or in our region, but also worldwide. You will hear from these projects during the conference. May this forum be inspiring and successful for you, but I also wish you a great time at the Opel-Zoo and here in Kronberg.

Dr. Thomas Kauffels, Director

During the Conservation Forum the EAZA Conservation Committee strives to create a meaningful platform where the zoo and aquarium community as well as the field conservation community can discuss and exchange experiences in conservation and continue to build bridges between the two worlds. We continue to have a specific focus on how to best deliver conservation activities of high quality and positive impact, no matter what the scale.  The programme of the EAZA Conservation Forum 2026 will be partially based and formed with content coming from submitted abstracts as well as invited speakers through the EAZA Conservation Committee.

The themes we are looking to highlight this edition are: 

Theme 1 - Social science in conservation 

This theme explores how social science shapes and strengthens conservation practice around the world. We invite abstracts that highlight how human dimensions — from community engagement and policy to behavioral change, governance, equity, and livelihoods — are integrated into conservation strategies and outcomes. For example: 

• Research or real-life examples of how social science improved conservation outcomes. 

• Examples of working together with people from different fields of expertise or culture, groups, or communities. 

• Lessons you have learned about working with people, sharing power, and making conservation inclusive. 

• New ways of doing conservation together with communities and sharing knowledge with everyone involved. 

Theme 2 - Collaboration 

This theme explores the power of partnerships — from local to global, informal to formal — that help bridge sectors, cultures, and knowledge systems for lasting conservation impact. 

We invite abstracts that highlight real-world examples of collaboration in conservation, including but not limited to: 

• Examples of strategies for initiating and sustaining collaborations and building partnerships with Indigenous Peoples, local communities, landowners, etc. 

• Examples of how to engage with government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. 

• Collaborating with non-traditional partners such as artists, health practitioners, or businesses. 

• (Experience with) Tools, platforms, funding mechanisms or policies that support collaborations in conservation. 

• Examples of co-management, co-design, or participatory decision-making processes for conservation. 

• Lessons learned on navigating conflicts, trust-building, power-sharing, or governance challenges in partnerships. 

Theme 3 - European species conservation 

This theme highlights practical ways for people and organisations to actively engage in conservation of European species, from local initiatives to cross-border efforts. We’re looking for real examples, inspiring ideas, and lessons learned that help others see where they can contribute and how to get started. 

• Volunteer and citizen science programs that connect people to species monitoring and habitat protection. 

• Community-led conservation efforts or local stewardship initiatives. 

• (Experience with) Tools, platforms, funding mechanisms or policies that make it easier for people to contribute to conservation goals.

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 25 JANUARY 2026 (END OF DAY)

For questions about the submission procedure contact merel.zimmermann@eaza.net 

SUBMIT YOUR ABSTRACT

Information about selected conference hotels will be added in this section soon

Saturday excursion

Saturday, 23 May 2025: Optional post-conference excursion to Messel pit fossil site (UNESCO World Heritage Site). More information will follow.