Press Release
Georgia Aquarium Receives Fourth Consecutive Accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums
ATLANTA (March 18, 2024) – Prestigious recognition highlights commitment to animal welfare and conservation initiatives.
In an important recognition of its commitment to exceptional animal welfare, conservation, and educational initiatives, Georgia Aquarium has once again been accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), the organization announced yesterday. This prestigious accreditation underscores Georgia Aquarium’s adherence to the highest standards in the zoological community.
The Aquarium was first accredited by the AZA in 2008 and subsequently in 2013 and 2018, affirming its status as an elite institution and a beacon of excellence and inspiration for others in the zoological field. AZA’s standards are continuously revised to reflect cutting-edge zoological practices based on the latest animal well-being science and research.
“Accreditation by the AZA is not merely a badge of honor; it’s a clear indication of our unwavering commitment to the highest standards of animal care and welfare,” said Brian Davis, Ph.D., President and CEO of Georgia Aquarium. “This recognition further fuels our dedication to conservation and showcases our efforts to provide educational and inspiring experiences for our guests.”
AZA accreditation requires a thorough review, including an on-site, multi-day inspection by an independent team of zoological professionals who evaluated all aspects of Georgia Aquarium’s operations, including animal welfare and wellbeing; veterinary care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; financial stability; risk management; governance; and guest services. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years to meet evolving standards and maintain membership in the association.
“Conservation and the well-being of animals is at the core of everything we do.,” said Georgia Aquarium’s Chief Animal Officer, Michael Boos. “This accreditation is a testament to our team’s hard work, the innovative practices we employ to ensure the health and happiness of our animals, and the ongoing effort we put into global conservation initiatives.”
To learn more about Georgia Aquarium, click here.
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Georgia Aquarium is a leading 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Atlanta, Ga. that is Humane Certified by American Humane and accredited by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Georgia Aquarium is committed to working on behalf of all marine life through education, preservation, exceptional animal care, and research across the globe. Georgia Aquarium continues its mission each day to inspire, educate, and entertain its millions of guests about the aquatic biodiversity throughout the world through its engaging exhibits and tens of thousands of animals across its eight major galleries.
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