Digital Transformation in Modern Zoos: Merging Technology, Nature-Based Environments and Ethical Principles
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Authors
Morrison, Ann
Viller, Stephen
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Conference Contribution
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Publisher
Auckland University of Technology
Abstract
Contemporary zoos are redefining their role in animal welfare and biodiversity conservation by integrating emerging technologies with nature-based designs and ethical care practices. Grounded in policy milestones like The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, 1973 and The Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992, these institutions address ecological challenges with innovative solutions while maintaining their focus on preserving biodiversity and ethical animal care. This paper examines how modern zoos integrate digital technologies into their operations, integrating advanced monitoring systems, automated welfare assessment tools, and nature-based habitat designs. Advanced technologies allow zoos to create tailored care strategies for animals, where enrichment designs and habitat characteristics align with species-specific needs. However, we identify challenges in standardizing technology adoption across institutions and maintaining the balance between digital innovation and naturalistic care approaches. Through case study analysis and examination of current practices, we show that successful technology implementation depends on careful alignment with ethical principles that prioritize animal autonomy and environ-mental integrity. The adoption of technology in zoos underscores their trans-formative role within the built environment. Our findings indicate that the most effective zoo operations integrate technological capabilities with nature-based design principles, creating environments where digital monitoring enhances rather than replaces natural behavioral patterns. This integration proves essential for zoos to fulfill their commitment to conservation while ensuring that animal welfare remains paramount. The research contributes to understanding how zoological institutions can leverage technological in-novation to advance biodiversity conservation without compromising the ecological and ethical foundations of species careDescription
Keywords
41 Environmental sciences, 4101 Climate change impacts and adaptation, Biodiversity Conservation, Digital Zoo Technologies, Nature-Based Design, AI-Assisted Conservation
Source
The International Conference of Green + Digital + Intelligent Built Environments (GDI 2025), 1-3 December 2025, School of Future Environments, AUT, Auckland, New Zealand.
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