Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Contact: Jackie Marks, AZA, 301 562 0777 ext. 236
Courtney Jordan, AZA, 301 562 0777 ext.235

Aquariums Vital to Ocean Conservation

World Ocean Day to Highlight Conservation Education and Science

Silver Spring, Maryland (June 6, 2008) – Aquariums across the country have something to celebrate this World Ocean Day (June 8): their universal support for ocean conservation.

"AZA-accredited aquariums are actively engaged in protecting marine ecosystems. They provide hands-on opportunities for people to get involved," said AZA president and CEO Jim Maddy. "World Ocean Day is an opportunity to celebrate these successes and further engage the public."

"The world's oceans are facing many threats including pollution, habitat damage, overfishing, coral reef bleaching, and species loss," said Bill Mott, director of The Ocean Project. "AZA accredited facilities are essential to solving these problems."

Conservation projects led by AZA members include marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, beach clean-up events, protecting and rebuilding coral reefs, sea turtle monitoring, wetland restoration, sustainable seafood programs and more. Educating and connecting people to nature is a key element in protecting ocean resources. AZA-accredited aquariums and zoos are leaders in reaching 160 million people every year with important, science-based information about ocean conservation. To learn more, visit www.aza.org/ConScience/Oceans.

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org.

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