Inspiring Change, Saving Wildlife – Dublin Zoo Honoured at 2025 BIAZA Awards

8th July 2025 – Dublin Zoo is celebrating a standout performance at this year’s prestigious BIAZA Awards, hosted by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), where it was recognised once again for excellence in conservation leadership and public engagement.

Dr. Andrew Mooney, Senior Conservation and Science Officer at Dublin Zoo, received the coveted Rising Star Award, a top individual honour recognising exceptional early-career contributions to the zoo and aquarium sector. Dr. Mooney, who also serves as Coordinator for the Centre for Species Survival: Ireland, was praised for outstanding leadership in conservation science, policy, and community engagement.

Dr Jo Judge, CEO of BIAZA, said:

“Andrew is everything an outstanding progressive zoo like Dublin is about. It is clear from his nomination that he goes above and beyond his duties and has made a massive impact both at Dublin Zoo and within the wider zoo community. His expertise is exceptional, and he has revolutionised the way Dublin Zoo approaches conservation and research.”

Dr. Andrew Mooney, Senior Conservation and Science Officer at Dublin Zoo

In addition to this major individual accolade, Dublin Zoo was named Runner-Up in the Marketing, PR, Digital & Events category for its innovative campaign, “Breastfeeding Volunteers & the Birth of a Critically Endangered Bornean Orangutan.”

The campaign told the story of SJ, a critically endangered orangutan born at Dublin Zoo in 2024. Following the loss of Sibu, the Zoo’s beloved male orangutan, the birth of SJ to female orangutan Mujur offered a poignant legacy. In a unique approach to maternal conditioning, 30 breastfeeding volunteers helped model nurturing behaviours to Mujur ahead of the birth. While intervention was ultimately required to ensure SJ’s survival, the campaign underscored Dublin Zoo’s deep commitment to animal welfare and conservation.

Sibu Junior, Bornean orangutan born at Dublin Zoo to mother Mujur and now at Monkey World in the UK

The story gained significant public engagement, with a media reach of over 21 million in Ireland, and attracted international coverage from outlets including the BBC, Sky News, and ABC News.

Miguel Bueno, General Curator at Dublin Zoo, commented:

“We are incredibly proud to be recognised by BIAZA in both of these meaningful categories. Andrew Mooney’s Rising Star Award reflects the deep commitment and expertise that Dublin Zoo brings to conservation science. Meanwhile, sharing the story of our baby orangutan SJ and his mother Mujur shows the power of storytelling to connect people with wildlife conservation efforts and highlights the extraordinary efforts our team makes for animal welfare every day. These awards are a testament to our dedicated staff and the partnerships that help make our mission possible.”

As an award-winning BIAZA member, Dublin Zoo continues to set benchmarks in conservation science and community engagement, reinforcing its role as a leading force for wildlife protection in Ireland and beyond.

These latest honours follow previous BIAZA wins for Dublin Zoo across key areas including Animal Husbandry, Care and Breeding, Behaviour and Welfare, Sustainability, and PR, Marketing & Digital Events.

About BIAZA

The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) is the professional body representing the best zoos and aquariums in Britain and Ireland. With over 100 members, BIAZA promotes excellence in animal welfare, education, and conservation.

About Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo, a not-for-profit and registered charity (No. 20003715), has welcomed visitors since 1831 and now attracts over one million annually. All revenue—including ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships—supports the Zoo’s animal care, habitats, and conservation efforts. Operated by qualified professionals, Dublin Zoo follows strict international standards to ensure animal welfare, with animals living in enriched environments that encourage natural behaviours. Dedicated to saving wildlife and inspiring a love of nature, the Zoo contributes to over 30 global conservation and breeding programmes and educates the public on the importance of protecting the natural world.