Jeraldine Teng

Citation

Thesis Title
Asia-Pacific Zoos in the 21st Century: Stakeholder Perceptions of the Roles and Functions of Zoos

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Environmental pressures associated with human activities around the world are contributing to unprecedented levels of biodiversity loss, resulting in an urgent need for enhanced zoo conservation efforts. Ms Teng’s research assessed the role and function of zoos in six Asia-Pacific countries. A meta-analysis of zoo-based publications was employed to create a matrix of themes, stakeholders, and research outcomes. She visited zoos in six countries across the Asia-Pacific region, surveying the perceptions and expectations of stakeholders. The results show marked differences in stakeholder experiences and perceptions of zoos. In particular, differences in environmental, social and cultural norms make it extremely difficult for the zoo community to respond to ecosystem transformations and wildlife crises with a coherent agenda. Her research concludes that a globally integrated approach would vastly improve the efficacy of zoo conservation programmes.

Supervisors
Professor John Holland
Dr Paul Perry
Associate Professor Edward Minot
Associate Professor Trisia Farrelly