How to protect and maintain the existing DNA of a zoo and at the same time make it attractive and prepared for the future? Allwetterzoo Münster is facing this question and together with the team of dan pearlman experience architecture around Kieran Stanley, the holistic masterplan „Allwetterzoo Münster 2030 plus“ was conceptualized.
Masterplan 2030 Plus:At Allwetterzoo Münster, the conservation of biodiversity is transformed into an exciting all-round experience. The new master plan concept 2030 plus leads visitors through three different climate zones on the popular all-weather paths as well as on brand new trails. At Allwetterzoo Münster, climate and species conservation are becoming an exciting and immersive experience. The new Masterplan 2030 Plus guides visitors along the zoo’s well-known and beloved all-weather paths as well as along newly created routes through three distinct climate zones. These overarching climate areas are further subdivided into specific vegetation zones, where animals live in sections that closely resemble their natural habitats. The visitor path, known as the Visitor Experience Journey, begins in the temperate zone and leads through the subtropics to the tropics. This thoughtful structure enables a journey from north to south – for example, from Russia to the equator.
Demonstrating Biodiversity in a Changing Climate
The climate-based zoning allows for a direct comparison of the specific adaptations of animals to their respective habitats, as well as the threats posed by climate change in different parts of the world. In order to fully embrace the conservation concept, the animal population has also been assessed according to its threat level. As part of the masterplan, the zoo intends to introduce additional endangered species. Visitors can look forward to animals such as the spectacled bear, lowland tapir, and tree kangaroo.
Climate and Conservation Campus as a New Educational Hub
A key innovation within the zoo is the planned Climate and Conservation Campus, located at the entrance and exit area of the zoo. Conservation education is already a top priority at Allwetterzoo Münster, with initiatives like BioCity and the Zoo School. Looking ahead, the zoo will further strengthen its role as an educational institution by offering additional programmes on nature, climate, and species protection. It will also communicate its ongoing conservation work more visibly to the public. The youngest visitors are not forgotten—plans for new play stations and event spaces are also included in the masterplan.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability as Core Principles
Because Masterplan 2030 Plus is based on a comprehensive analysis of the zoo, the renovation and expansion work also includes an energy concept designed to improve resource management in a sustainable way. By addressing all relevant aspects—from nature and species protection to the enhancement of zoological quality, sustainable infrastructure, and educational and recreational offerings—the masterplan aims to increase the long-term attractiveness of the zoo.
First Pilot Projects: Pantanal, Asia, and Africa
Implementation of the masterplan began in 2019, starting with two pilot projects: the South American Pantanal, along with themed zones focusing on Asian island habitats and the African savannah.
New Perspectives on Climate, Biodiversity, and Leisure
The masterplan aims to bring in-situ species conservation to life and make it tangible for visitors in the form of a unique leisure destination. The zoo’s defining feature—the covered all-weather walkway—is fully integrated into the masterplan and extended to include the overarching theme of climate. In future, the zoo will not only be divided into the climate zones of temperate, subtropical, and tropical, but will also recreate the global ecosystems of these zones as authentically and appropriately as possible. All construction and renovation measures resulting from the masterplan are committed to a responsible and sustainable use of resources.
