ROTTERDAM, 29 October 2024 – Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo) marked its first "Impact Day," highlighting environmental achievements since its shift towards nature restoration efforts. The zoo's initiatives aim to conserve species and restore habitats both locally and internationally.
Diergaarde Blijdorp reports progress on nature restoration goals
Diergaarde Blijdorp in Rotterdam celebrated its inaugural "Impact Day" on 29 October, presenting the results from its ongoing transformation into a nature restoration organisation. This annual event showcased the zoo's conservation projects and ecological restoration efforts, as Blijdorp aims to protect endangered species and engage in broader environmental initiatives. The event featured presentations by zoo director Erik Zevenbergen, as well as insights from scientific experts involved in Blijdorp's conservation projects.
Key conservation initiatives
Blijdorp has focused its restoration efforts through four main initiatives: Stop the Loss, Brighten the Blue, Reverse the Red, and Expand the Green. These projects work towards safeguarding endangered species, promoting awareness, and strengthening partnerships on both national and international levels.
During "Impact Day," the zoo spotlighted a range of projects, emphasising efforts to tackle biodiversity loss and habitat degradation. Erik Zevenbergen underscored the importance of Blijdorp’s role in this shift, stating, “A movement needs to start. We have stood still for too long. Blijdorp wants to make a difference.”
International environmental efforts
Blijdorp’s conservation work extends beyond the Netherlands, with recent projects focusing on global ecosystems. Notably, the zoo and its support network, the Vrienden van Blijdorp, acquired 30 hectares of land in Nepal to combat deforestation. Research efforts in 2024 included genetic studies of the endangered Asian elephant and Rüppell’s griffon vulture, species that face extinction pressures globally.
The zoo’s Roffa Reefs project supports coral reef regeneration in the Caribbean while working to prevent the extinction of the critically endangered Lesser Antillean iguana. These initiatives reflect Blijdorp’s expanded scope, which now includes addressing ecological challenges far beyond the zoo’s grounds.
Local conservation and waste reduction initiatives
Blijdorp has also focused on local conservation projects. Collaborating with partners, the zoo is working towards reintroducing the Dalmatian pelican in the Netherlands. Blijdorp has taken additional steps to minimise plastic waste within its facilities by phasing out single-use plastic bottles and cups. In recent months, the zoo’s work in rescuing and releasing seahorses and rare sea turtles has garnered public support across the Netherlands.
Scientific research as a central pillar
With its shift towards becoming a restoration-oriented zoo, Blijdorp has increasingly prioritised scientific research. In 2024, several PhD projects commenced, including studies on the critically endangered Rüppell’s griffon vulture. Further research planned for 2025 will address health challenges in species such as the Asian lion and red panda.
Blijdorp’s ongoing conservation work aligns with its broader objective of building a sustainable future for wildlife and increasing public awareness of ecological issues. The outcomes achieved in 2024 form a foundation for future projects, both in the Netherlands and abroad.
Directions to Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo)
Diergaarde Blijdorp is centrally located in Rotterdam and easily accessible by public transport or car. The zoo is near Rotterdam Central Station, with tram and bus routes connecting directly to the site. The surrounding area offers visitors a range of dining and shopping options.
