With these powerful words, Paula Cerdán, Head of Conservation and Animal Welfare at the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), set the tone for her participation at IAAPA Expo Europe 2025, during the event’s Sustainability Day in Barcelona and her presentation at the IAAPA Innovation Stage. 

Speaking to a diverse audience of professionals from across the attractions industry, Cerdán explored how modern zoos and aquariums have evolved into conservation leaders with the opportunity and responsibility to fill a number of roles to support biodiversity conservation. Her presentation, From Visitor Attractions to Conservation Leaders: The Evolving Role of Zoos and Aquariums, highlighted how modern zoos and aquariums and WAZA are aligning their work with global biodiversity frameworks, actively contributing to species recovery, and engaging millions of visitors in conservation action.

Drawing on examples from around the world – from the California condor (Gymnogyps californianus) to the Przewalski’s horse (Equus ferus przewalskii) and the Tequila splitfin (Zoogoneticus tequila) – Cerdán illustrated how progressive zoos and aquariums are helping bring species back from the brink of extinction, and how supporting recovery efforts is no longer the sole responsibility of those who work for nature, such as zoos and aquariums, but also of governments, the private sector and local communities. She referenced both the IUCN Species Survival Commission and the Convention on Biological Diversity, which recognise modern zoos and aquariums as a key part of the solution to reversing biodiversity loss, bridging in situ and ex situ conservation, and advancing research, education, and community engagement. 

“The only choice we have,” she reminded the audience, echoing a quote from Ana Toni , Executive Director of UN’s COP30 Climate Conference “is to act urgently and together.”