AZA, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, has selected a handful of member-led conservation projects to provide support to through the SAFE: Saving Animals from Extinction granting program.

The scheme is now in its second year. Its goal is to create funds to members of AZA who are introducing plans designed to advance the recovery of species.

AZA is pushing for around $730,000 of funding into four conservation projects.

Dan Ashe, president and CEO of AZA, commented: “It is exciting to witness the growth of the SAFE granting program, both in terms of the scope of the projects funded and the shared commitment by AZA members to conservation.

“Despite the extraordinary challenges of the past year, AZA members have continued their dedication to saving animals from extinction, which further demonstrates that conservation is in the DNA of modern, accredited zoos and aquariums,” Ashe added.

In 2021, additional funds are become available through the support of the Disney Conservation Fund and other corporate and philanthropic contributors.