Nowadays we are experiencing, as never before, a huge climate crisis with an unprecedented loss of species that is dramatically contributing to a decline in biodiversity. Several species have become extinct or are on the verge of extinction due to a range of anthropogenic activities such as pollution, overexploitation of natural and biological resources, and land and coastal overdevelopment that are increasing global climate change (Minteer et al., 2022). Mitigating impacts on species and saving those at risk are a priority for scientists to mitigate biodiversity loss. The contribution that modern Conservation Zoos can make in this direction is enormous.

Keeping wild and/or exotic animals in captivity has been known since ancient Greece and Roman times (Nygren et al., 2018). The term zoo encompasses a wide variety of organizations, both public and private, that are primarily home to wild or exotic animals and require a zoo license or similar approval. Zoos are found in almost all countries around the world and attract more than 700 million visitors annually (Nygren et al., 2018; Spooner et al., 2023), who wish to learn more and admire wildlife without putting themselves at risk and without having to travel to different parts of the globe. Most modern zoos have been transformed in recent decades from exotic animal farms to specialized centres for species conservation and welfare with the ultimate goal of sustainable development and conservation of global biodiversity. At the same time, however, there are many voices opposing the existence and operation of zoos on the grounds of exploitation and deprivation of animal freedom, the keeping of animals in captivity and the operation of animals as exhibits, along with issues of animal ethics, health, safety and welfare.

The Cyprus Center for Environmental Research and Education (CYCERE) of the Limassol Metropolis and the Limassol Municipality conducted a Public Consultation on the future of the Limassol Zoo. The Public Consultation was both online and in person. The Public Consultation aimed to record the views of citizens and representatives of stakeholders on the future of the Limassol Zoo. The citizens' opinion was considered very important for the decision on the future of the Limassol Zoo in order to shape any decision together with the citizens.

- The first alternative was to close the Limassol Zoo and expand the Public Garden in this area.

- The second alternative was the Significant upgrading of the Limassol Zoo to become an autonomous and effective organisation that would also operate as an educational and/or research institution/centre that would meet all quality standards and good animal welfare practices with emphasis on the conservation of Cyprus' Animal Genetic Resources (species) ("wild" and agricultural). 

The results of the Public Consultation on the future of the Zoological Centre were 56.89% responded "close", and 43.11% responded "upgrade". However, there is a significant difference regarding Limassol residents who seem to be divided, with 49.79% of Limassol residents wanting closure and 50.21% in favour of upgrading.

Following the Public Consultation, the Cyprus Center for Environmental Research and Education (CYCERE), at the request of the Limassol Municipality, proposed to end the current status of the Limassol Zoo and change it from a zoo to a "Limassol Animal Farm Park". In the new "Limassol Animal Farm Park" visitors will be able to carry out various activities that will bring them closer to the animals. 

The creation of the new Limassol Animal Farm Park, which will operate in accordance with the five freedoms for animal welfare, is an important step towards ensuring higher standards of care, will enhance the mental and physical health of the animals, while offering visitors the opportunity to observe the animals in a more natural and pleasant environment. The creation of an education center that offers environmental education programs and connection to the animals is critical to developing a more informed and responsible public. This will help raise awareness about environmental appeals and the importance of animal and nature conservation.

Focusing on the conservation and enhancement of Cyprus' animal genetic resources is a valuable goal that will help protect and preserve local biodiversity. This underlines the need for active conservation efforts and the need for strategies to ensure the long-term survival of species. Achieving administrative autonomy for the proposed new Limassol Animal Farm Park is vital for its effective operation and development, as it will enable more flexible management, better response to changing needs and challenges, and more effective implementation of programmes and enhancement strategies. The creation of a botanical garden within the wider Municipal Garden area will add a new dimension to the educational and aesthetic value of the new Limassol Animal Farm Park and will provide a place where visitors can learn about the diversity of animals, their importance to the environment and the interactions between plants and animals.

In summary, it is important to note that all of the proposed upgrades in the five areas focused on  the CYCERE study effectively address contemporary environmental concerns, enhance tree plantings and green space, and preserve Limassol's historical memory. The integration of the botanical garden, improved animal welfare and the enhancement of local biodiversity are acts that reflect a deep understanding and respect for the natural environment and cultural heritage. 

Furthermore, these actions are part of a wider plan to increase greenery and preserve Limassol's historical and cultural identity, combining environmental sustainability with the enhancement of the city's heritage. The idea is not only to provide an improved space that will act as a centre for education, conservation and cultural experience, but also a centre for animal care and welfare. 

Through these initiatives, the proposed new Limassol Animal Farm Park is proving itself as an organisation that responsibly addresses modern challenges, making a substantial contribution to environmental awareness and advocacy for sustainable development. The final decision on the future of the Limassol Zoo is up to the new Limassol Municipality Council.