How can biodiversity be made tangible? The authorities of the city of Bremerhaven, in collaboration with the Zoo am Meer, have embarked on a concept study for expanding the zoo to realize the "Biodome" project, aimed at making biodiversity an experiential reality.
For zoos, biodiversity and species conservation have long been central themes. This is also true for Zoo am Meer Bremerhaven, which was completely rebuilt between 2001 and 2004 and expanded in 2013 with the addition of the North Sea Aquarium. The zoo is now aiming for a clear positioning on the topic of biodiversity. With a view to the broader societal relevance of the subject, Zoo am Meer is planning the long-term development of the Biodom Bremerhaven. The Biodom is envisioned as an extension on the west side of the New Harbour, in direct proximity to the existing zoo, and will be connected to it via a bridge.
A shared goal for the city of Bremerhaven
In the future, the Biodom will serve to make the importance of biological diversity a tangible experience. With a concept study for the expansion of Zoo am Meer, the city of Bremerhaven and Zoo am Meer have jointly set out to bring the Biodom project to life. The zoo is also supported by the owner of the zoo property, the Städtische Grundstücksgesellschaft Bremerhaven (Municipal Property Company of Bremerhaven). The Havenwelten Bremerhaven (Harbor Worlds) will thus be expanded beyond the existing themes of climate change (Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8° Ost) and migration (German Emigration Center) to include the crucial topic of biodiversity. The concept for the Biodom was developed by the architects of dan pearlman Erlebnisarchitektur under the direction of Kieran Stanley.
Insights into the Amazon Rainforest
At the heart of the Biodom Bremerhaven lies a section representing a hotspot of the Amazon rainforest ecosystem. Complex terms such as genetic diversity, functional diversity, and ecosystem diversity are made understandable through the fascination with animals. The animals act as ambassadors for biodiversity and species conservation. They help communicate important content in an engaging way. The modern, walk-through facility enables the mixed housing of different species and above all promotes a direct and emotional experience for visitors. After visiting the Biodom Bremerhaven, guests will see themselves as part of the Earth’s fascinating and fragile ecosystem. There is currently no comparable project of this kind in Germany or Europe.
A future project with urgency
The Biodom Bremerhaven is a perfect addition to the existing zoo and seems more important than ever in light of the rapid loss of biological diversity. However, given the many other pressing issues in society, it remains to be seen to what extent and when the vision of the Biodom in Bremerhaven will be realized.
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