The paper below focuses on the barriers to setting up a safari zoo in the UAE. The report seeks to identify how animal zoo may be effectively established and managed in the UAE. Through this, the study will identify the animals that are more likely to be comfortable in the zoo. Similarly, the study will highlight on how the zoo should be modified to ensure that the animals’ wellbeing and rights are upheld. As such, issues with respect to shortage of space, well-beings of animals, unpleasant smell, and the UAE’s weather will be identified.
The research is worth studying because its findings will offer means of setting up a reputable safari zoo that meets the international conservancy regulations. In the gulf region, safari zoos are one of the best family destinations. They offer amusement and education opportunities in a natural out-of-door settings (Vine 12).
Through the study, it can be revealed whether the current animal zoos in the UAE are well managed considered that a number of challenges exist. Equally, through the study it will be known whether the current animal zoos in the country infringe on animals’ rights. Based on the above illustrations, it is apparent that a comprehensive research on the subject should be carried out before setting up a new venture in the region. The findings obtained from this study may also be used in improving the management of the existing animal zoos. The research is divided into two parts. In the first part, barriers faced when establishing safari zoo are highlighted. The second part focuses on the means to address the barriers.
Barriers to sustainable development
According to Tuyl, a number of challenges have affected the people’s behaviour and decisions with respect to setting up safari zoos in the UAE (Tuyl 10). Space constraint is a major decision that should be considered before setting up an animal zoo in the UAE. In the last few decades, the country has witnessed rapid urbanization. Usually, zoos are set up in urban regions to serve the needs of the city dwellers (Tuyl 12). Therefore, in the country zoo investors have to face huge competition for space with real estate developers. In this regard, it will be expensive to acquire space in the region pushing up the cost of setting up the venture.
Tuyl notes that the issue of space constraints also implies that zoos in the region will experience clarity of view challenges (Tuyl 12). Unlike in the wild, animals in the zoos are kept in cages. As such, the cages are made of heavy metal bar and mesh to prevent the animals from escaping. Similarly, the cages are meant to protect the visitors from being attacked by the animals. The cages prevent the visitors from having a clear view of the animals.
Tuyl suggests that aanother issue that will be faced when setting up a zoo in the region is how to get rid of the unpleasant smell of the animal excreta (Tuyl 17). The zoos’ floors are made of concrete floors. After the animals have soiled the floors, zookeepers should clean the floors to keep germs, stench, and diseases at bay. Given that in the region, space is a vital issue cleaning would be an uphill task. Similarly, visitors’ hours will be interrupted for cleaning to be carried out.
Another challenge that will be faced while setting up the zoo is UAE’s hot weather conditions. Unlike in the tropics, where a number of the animals in the zoo will be sourced from, temperatures in the region are so high. The above imply that without proper ventilation and other cooling mechanisms the animals in the zoo would not survive. Therefore, before setting up the venture, the investor should ensure that proper ventilation and cooling mechanisms are installed. The cost of installing and managing such services is higher. Therefore, the cost of setting up a zoo in the region will be higher compared to doing so in tropical countries.
According to Vine, the above challenges were faced while setting up Dubai’s Safari Park (Vine 78). Due to space constraints, some animals have been forced to live in cages. Viewing and taking pictures of the animals in the cage has not been easy as clarity is obscured by the mesh. Owing to this, a number of visitors attest to the fact that their experience in the zoo was less thrilling compared to in wild parks and reserves.
Another challenge faced in Dubai’s Safari Park is stench smell (Vine 82). To reduce the stench smell, the zookeepers wash the animal cages twice in a day. Similarly, the zoo floors are divided into two. One part is made of concrete floor. The other part is made up of sand floors. The sand floors are changed frequently. As such, the cost of maintaining and cleaning such floors in EAE is higher compared to zoos in tropical countries that have natural floors.
An additional problem experienced in Dubai’s Safari Park is poor ventilation. Because the zoo is situated in an arid region, the temperatures in the zoo are very high (Vine 85). With limited space and high temperatures, the zoo experiences ventilation challenges. The issue has aggravated the unpleasant smell in the zoo. To reduce on the issue, the zookeepers use the disinfectants when washing the floors. Similarly, trees have been planted in the zoo to keep the temperatures down. Owing to this initiative, the temperatures in the zoo have reduced by two degrees compared to the external environment.
An additional issue experienced in Dubai’s Safari Park is how to meet the animals’ wellbeing. Because a number of animals are kept in enclosures, many have exhibited symptoms of boredom (Wibbelt 45). In the wild, the animals are supposed to roam freely. By enclosing them in cages, the animals are emotionally affected. Similarly, some animals in the zoo have become accustomed to the presence of human beings. Such animals feel bored in the absence of visitors.
Strategies to manage the identified barriers to make the initiative successful
To manage the above challenges, zoo investors in the UAE should solve space issues. As such, zoos should be located at the outskirts of cities. At the outskirts, competition from real estate investors will be limited. Therefore, the cost of acquiring land will be reduced freeing up the much-needed funds for the construction of other zoo facilities. Owing to the abundance of land at the outskirts, large animal enclosures can be constructed to allow the animals to roam freely in their enclosures (Hodge & Marie 34). With large enclosures, animals will not easily be bored compared to when they are enclosed in small cages. Equally, large enclosures will make it easy for zookeepers to carry out their cleaning exercise. Through this, the stench issue will be solved.
Correspondingly, my venture will be successful if I prioritize on the animals that will be best suited to the UAE’s environment. The animals I will chose are scimitar horned Oryx, Arabian Oryx, Arabian gazelle, lion, giraffes, chimpanzees, and tigers. I will keep the animals in cages. The above animals have been reared in UAE’s zoos. Based on this, there are higher chances that the animals will do well in my zoo.
When temperatures are high, the wildlife should be sprayed with cool water. Similarly, my zoo will be installed with efficient ventilators to ensure that the facility is kept at the right temperatures. In addition, my zookeepers should ensure that the animals have access to clean drinking water at all times. Through this, the animals’ rights and health will be upheld (Vine 16). Similarly, the above practice will ensure that the zoo investors save on the funds required to manage the animals’ health.
Lastly, as a zoo investor I should invest in qualified and experienced zookeepers. With the right personnel, the above challenges will be addressed with ease. Qualified zookeepers will educate the public on how to handle and socialize with the animals reducing on cases of attacks by the animals (Vine 22). In addition, the zookeepers will ensure that the animals are fed appropriately and at the right time. If I adhere to the above strategies, I will be able to save on the cost of establishing my zoo in and ensure that the venture is effectively managed.
Works Cited
Hodge, Annelies, and Marie Turcotte. Organizational Change towards Sustainable Development: Learning from a Best-practice Zoo. London: Trident, 2009. Print.
Vine, Peter. Natural Emirates: Wildlife and Environment of the United Arab Emirates. London: Trident, 2013. Print.
Wibbelt, Gudrun. Proceedings of the International Conference on Diseases of Zoo and Wild Animals 2013, Vienna, Austria. Berlin: Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 2013. Print.
This essay explores the dilemma of keeping animals in zoos. In this essence, the legitimacy of restricting the animals is investigated.
Moreover, the essay seeks to establish harmony between advocacy for abolition of zoos and the need to preserve some species of animals. In addition, there is the necessity to control the interaction between animals and human beings.
I have observed that there is no solution to such dilemmas. Any observer has to establish a middle ground and maintain balance between the arguments. This is because it is not possible to take a radical action on the issue at hand.
I had an experience of arguing over the issue, which has two equal sides while writing the paper. I was able to examine both sides of the argument and analyze the arguments.
While it seemed appropriate to me that people should keep animals in the zoos prior to this assignment, my perception changed after analyzing both sides of the argument. I had to take a middle ground and analyze the perceptions as a neutral observer.
When writing the arguments in the paper, it became difficult to make an objective analysis of the arguments due to the influence of personal opinion. It is difficult to establish a middle ground that does not favor either side.
The topic of the essay generates significant interest in me because most people assume that animals have their specific places in the ecosystem, which are subject to manipulation by human beings at will.
On the other hand, liberal people advocate that fair competition can exist between animals and people naturally. This article proves that neither case is entirely true.
Body
Throughout the history of humanity, interaction with animals has been inevitable. Superiority of human beings has made them highly competitive. Other living things have to adapt to new environments or leave their natural habitat to create space for human beings and their activities.
The human population is evenly distributed around the world. On the other hand, animal population is partially distributed, with different species occupying different parts of the world. Since animals have always fascinated people, there has always been the urge to observe animals and their behavior.
In addition, all living organisms on earth survive through competition for resources with each other (McKinley & Shepard 65). This has led to endangerment of some species of animals. Generally, animals are considered important to human beings, regardless of the material value of each species.
Gradually, it has become important to protect animal species that are facing the danger of extinction, either due to encroachment of their immediate space in the ecosystem, or due to competition with other organisms whose lives depend on common resources.
For this reason, zoos have been built, and animals are kept inside for the sole purpose of preservation of animal life or for entertainment (Norton 42). It is true that the zoos protect a small number of animals from the competition that exists in their natural habitat.
In this way, they protect the species from extinction, and satisfy human being’s curiosity as people go for sightseeing at zoos as a recreational activity (Norton 21).
Most zoos keep wild animals, and majority of the animal population at the zoos is made up of animals that are rarely seen by human beings in their immediate environment. These animals are used to roaming in the jungle and forests.
Others are used to swimming freely in the seas and rivers. However, due to limited space, zoos keep the animals in a much smaller and controlled environment. Obviously, there is restriction of freedom for the animals in order to contain them in the zoo.
For most of their lives, the animals in the zoo do not lead a normal life like other wild animals. They are protected from the competition in the ecosystem due to their perceived importance to human beings. However, this is a serious impediment to their freedom too.
Animals are not allowed to roam freely during the day or night, as they would have done in a free environment. On the other hand, the rigors of competing with other wild animals are eliminated from their lives.
Moreover, the animals receive special treatment as they are provided with veterinary care, a service that other animals in the jungle and sea do not normally get (Robinson 53).
It is arguable that the setting of a zoo is analogous to a prison were felons are incarcerated to protect the society from their potentially harmful tendencies.
One might easily conclude that the animals in the zoo are in some kind of psychological distress due to disruption of their normal course of life and their detainment.
This view assumes that animals, like human beings, have the ability to discern the importance of freedom. Furthermore, the notion argues that animals have thoughts and feelings just like human beings.
It is difficult to establish these arguments as facts due to the limited emotional interaction between animals in the zoo and their keepers.
Thus, the idea that animals perceive physical freedom in a similar way as human beings is subject to debate (Mullan & Marvin 75).
Zoos are not primarily intended to curtail the freedom of an animal, but are designed to protect the animal from harsh environment. Normally, there are efforts to create an environment similar to the particular animal’s habitat in the zoo.
It is also difficult to assess whether the artificial environment created by zookeepers is identical to the natural habitat suitable for the animals.
This observation means that it is not entirely true that the zoos are aimed at curtailing the freedom of the animals (Brooman & Legge 85). Consequently, the animals may be better off at the zoo.
Moreover, it is not true that zoos completely change the normal course of life for the animals within it since there is an effort to simulate their natural habitat.
Some people are of the opinion that animals are inferior to human beings. This suggests that zoos are meant to restrict the animals within the zoo environment to protect human beings’ interest.
Some animals are dangerous to human life, while others compete against human being for resources. This is an obvious observation that has been under scientific study.
On the other hand, animals could be perceived to be equal to human beings. This means that the animals can compete for resources fairly against human beings.
Some people use this perspective to argue against establishment of zoos, which in their perspective, are the making of an unfair competition between animals and human beings.
The highlighted perceptions and observations present the dilemma of the existence of zoos. In a critical analysis of all radical perceptions, no single argument is proved entirely appropriate for the issue of zoos.
If zoos were to be eliminated as a way of protecting and preserving animal life, there would be dire consequences for humans and the animals themselves (Acampora 45).
It is an obvious observation that some animals would become extinct due to predation and competition from other animals in the natural habitat. People could also be affected by the interactions and conflicts between the animals and human beings.
While some animals would pose direct danger to human beings, others would affect the creations of human beings such as organized agriculture. It is thus obvious that a conflict will result from the freedom of animals.
However, this presents another question for argument since there is fairness in sharing of natural resources by living organisms in such a situation.
Although a relatively small number of animals are kept in the zoo, majority of animals are free and live in the wilderness. This brings up the issue of the scale of restriction of animals within zoos.
Keeping all animals in the zoo and eliminating them from their natural environment is an extreme action. This kind of an action would present a situation of extreme interference with nature. It is only logical that a balance between freedom of animals and existence of zoos has to be established.
Animals could be kept in an open environment that is similar to their natural habitat as much as possible. This would eliminated the problem of having animals in a zoo were cages similar to prison cells are used to contain the animals.
On the issue of competition, it would be unfair to let animals live free and compete against human beings in the natural environment. People would eliminate animals from the ecosystem due to their superiority in terms of logical reasoning.
This makes it necessary to provide some kind of protection for the animals. In this essence, zoos can neither be justified nor completely denounced.
Works Cited
Acampora, Ralph R.. Metamorphoses of the zoo: animal encounter after Noah. Lanham, Md.: Lexington Books, 2010. Print.
Brooman, Simon, and Debbie Legge. Law relating to animals. London: Cavendish, 1997. Print.
Mullan, Bob, and Garry Marvin. Zoo culture. 2nd ed. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1999. Print.
Norton, Bryan G.. Ethics on the ark: zoos, animal welfare, and wildlife conservation. Washington: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1995. Print.
Robinson, Phillip T.. Life at the zoo: behind the scenes with the animal doctors. New York: Columbia University Press, 2004. Print.
Shepard, Paul, and Daniel McKinley. The subversive science; essays toward an ecology of man,. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1969. Print.
The paper is devoted to the concept of sustainability and its implementation in the tourism industry. Australian zoos are chosen as a focus for discussion. We are going to consider the sustainable initiatives, programs and plans which exist in the industry, whether they are effective and how they function.
The recommendations are going to be made about the additional initiatives which may be implemented in the industry paying attention to the failure to apply to one of the concepts in the sustainable development triangle. The results of the research show that social aspect is not developed, especially in the governmental regulations. A number of initiatives will be offered, directed at the children treatment skills and the elimination of the consequences of the bad impact of environment pollution on the industry.
Introduction
The Concept of Sustainability
There are a lot of different concepts which are directed at the understanding of the functioning of the specific spheres. Considering the concept of sustainability, it should be noted that this notion is defined as the concept which “explores the relationship among economic development, environmental quality and social equality” (Rogers, Jalal & Boyd 2008, p. 42).
Tourism industry has easily transformed the concept of sustainability to its needs and has offered the following issues which are considered to explain the concept of sustainability within the tourism and hospitality industry.
The concept of sustainability has transformed into tourism industry and captures the following issues, equity of the local government, tourists’ satisfaction with the conditions, the competitiveness of the industry, etc. (See Fig. 1; Munasingle 2004). It is important to remember that each department in the tourism industry is usually related to the specific issues within the concept of sustainability (Knowles, Diamantis & El-Mourhabi 2004, p. 145; Harris, Griffin & Williams 2002, p. 49).
Background on the Sector under Discussion
Australia is the country which has a good tourism sector. People come to have a rest on the aches of this country, but at the same time they are interested in the zoos located on its territory. It is important to understand that the activities provided by the zoo industry have encouraged more and more people to visit Australia with the purpose to see its wildlife.
The main purpose of this report is to consider the main initiatives, programs and plans which are implemented in the zoo industry, check their effectiveness, and point to the recommendations which may serve the basis for the future programs and initiatives. It is important to understand that the concept of sustainability is closely connected with each of those initiatives as they are related to the society, financial problems and environmental issues the industry faces.
Discussion
The Main Sustainable Issues that Confront Zoo Sector
Dwelling upon the zoo industry in Australia, it should be mentioned that his sphere faces numerous confronts and difficulties. Considering the problem on the global level, it may be concluded that one of the main confront zoos face is the climate change and the global warming as one of its consequences.
Between 15 and 37 per cent of the species may extinct by 2050 if nothing is done in the relation to environmental protection (Beaton 2007). The increase of the temperature in the Arctic Circle will lead to the extinction to the spread species. World Worldwide Fund has stated that the increase of the temperature is one of the main activities which show the increase of the greenhouse gas emissions.
The increase of these activities is usually related to Australians who are considered to be “the highest per capita greenhouse gas polluters in the world” (An Inconvenient Truth 2006, n.p.). The pollution of the air is also the confrontation for sustainable functioning of the sector.
A vast majority of different animals in the zoo, their increase due to different reasons, and the necessity to make some specific area for animals wider, makes Zoo face the problem of land possession. Having a restricted area, zoos sometimes has to create uncomfortable conditions for animals in order to arrange the place for all animals that require it (ZAA (ARAZPA) Research Award 2010).
Australian zoos face the problems of information lack. This does not create successful conditions for the work of the industry. The advertising information is commonly met in media, but the problems the zoo industry faces often remain uncovered (Craig 2007, p. 46).
Too many different species become extinct. Australia is the country which inhabits a lot of different animals which do not exist on other content in the whole world. Having a specific climate and other conditions, Australian zoos are interesting for the tourists from different countries. People from all over t world go o se the unique flora and fauna of Australia, but the increased cases of the species extinction may create many problems both to the zoo and tourism industries in general (Miller, Vandome & McBrewster 2010).
The harm to the natural environment is also great. Social and economic issues are also essential for the zoo industry in Australia as much attention is paid to the protection of unique species and nature conservation, that is why the financial support is in constant demand and governmental programs and general budgeting is not enough in this case.
Programs, Plans and Initiatives Implemented in Relation to the Main Issues
Having considered the main issues the zoo industry has faced in Australia, it should be mentioned that the government and other social organizations try to face those issues and cop with them. Moreover, some of the issues which are considered to be central not only for Australian zoos but for the whole mankind are initiated from the world organizations which try to help countries cope with the problems.
Getting down to the discussion of numerous programs, plans and initiatives implemented in relation to the main issues in the zoo industry in Australia, it should be mentioned that not all of these initiatives are successful, but the very idea of those and that they have been implemented point to the fact that there are people who care about Australian zoos.
Global warming and the climate changes are the main issues which require constant programs and decisions. There are a lot of different initiatives and plans which are aimed at protecting the nature.
First of all, the following existing environmental regulations should be mentioned in order to make sure that the government takes care of its country and also tries to protect environment, the Wild River Act 2005 (QLD), the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, the Nature Conservation Act 1994 (QLD), the wild river Environment Bill 2010 (Inquiry into indigenous economic development in Queensland and review of the Wild Rivers (Environment Management) Bill 2010 2011, p. 5).
Apart from the governmental influence, the industry tries to implement different plans and initiatives to protect environment and influence of the natural processes in a positive manner.
Being aware of the unique flora and fauna, as well as of the harmful effect of climate change on the inhabitants of zoos in Australia, a number of initiatives are created with the purpose or help implement nature conservation programs. Some initiatives are not strictly directed at the zoo industry, but they are aimed at saving the spheres which influence Australian zoos straight.
Here they are: ‘Minimising energy consumption’, ‘Recycling initiative with Coca-Cola’, ‘Mobile phone recycling program’, ‘Recycling with Visy for all paper and cardboard’, ‘Garden maintenance’, ‘BP Global Choice Program’, ‘Biodegradable coffee cups’, water conservation and the usage of environmentally friendly paper (Carbon Footprint 2010).
The problem with limited area of Australian zoos may be solved by means of a number of plans. First of all, the Australian government plans to offer the industry about 114 hectares of forest at Peachester (about 86 hectares were given to the zoos in 2006).
The source declares that even though the huge area of the forest is going to be offered to the zoos, “all commercial entities would have to comply with all planning laws and environmental laws” (Land provided for Australia Zoo expansion 2010, n.p.). The forest area is returned to the zoos as in 2007 it was taken in return for the land where the zoos expected to set-up open-range safari experience (Flatley 2007, n.p.; Surviving Australia Australian Bush Exhibit, Melbourne Zoo 2006, n.p.).
Australian Zoo society claims that “eating, killing and wearing wildlife products is legal and ‘sustainable’ is obviously the greatest disaster for today’s wildlife” (Say NO to Wildlife Products 2009, n.p.). Implementing the idea of conscious consumerism, this initiative is aimed at preventing the consumption of unique natural wildlife products.
More than 600 employees on Australian zoo try to teach tourists and other visitors that buying wildlife products they support illegal trade and species extinction (Say NO to Wildlife Products 2009, n.p.). Wildlife products usually cost too much and there are always people who want to get that money no matter that their actions ad to limitation of the species representatives. The demand on the products increases their supply, both legal and illegal.
This information spread is one more issue the zoo industry faces in Australia. Many people remain ignorant of the problems zoos face. The spread of this information is really important, but mot many initiatives and plans are developed in this direction.
The participation of pilgrims in the information delivery is really crucial for the industry as those who have visited the zoos in Australia and have seen the problems which exist there have an opportunity to deliver this information via the Internet, communication etc. They create special social connections on websites, numerous chartrooms, and thematic blogs where everyone can read the information and reflect on it (Vivanco 2009, p. 395).
There are two more programs which are directed and financial support and social issues, Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Worldwide (2010) and Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital (2010). These programs are directed at the protecting natural environment, funding supporting projects and programs.
Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Worldwide (2010) is also directed at the spread of information and educational programs in the sphere of environmental protection and the awareness of wildlife issues. Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital treats about “10,000 patients annually with the cost to treat one animal ranging from $100 to thousands of dollars” (Vote for Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors 2011, n.p.).
Australian zoo has initiated a number of other programs, like Endangered Species (2009), Breeding Programs (2009), Answer the Call (2009), and Lyn Irwin Memorial Fund (2009) which have different purpose, but in are directed at one specific goal, inform the society about the existing problems and collect money for solving them.
All of the programs, plans and initiatives in the zoo organizations are based on the donations as the government is unable to finance the programs in such scope as the industry tries to implement (Animals Australia Conference 2006 2007, p. 6).
The Effectiveness of the Initiatives, Plans and Programs
Dwelling upon the effectiveness of the initiatives, plans and programs implemented by different departments in the zoo industry in Australia, it is important to mention that most of the purposes have been reached, some programs still continue to perform their functions, while the smallest part of the initiatives has been considered as unsuccessful.
Considering the case with Australia Zoo and koalas, it may be concluded that the legal acts and the industry initiatives do not coincide that leads to the problems for koalas only. The legal acts make the zoos to release koalas within 5 kilometres from their usual inhabitation, but the injured animal cannot be released as they are unable to survive in the wild environment. The governmental initiative in the relation to koalas’ release has failed (Australia Zoo defends koala policy 2008).
Considering the annual report devoted to the identification of the completed tasks, the following issues have been addressed, the communication with the supporters, use of email for appeals, opening of the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, charities on the websites and other initiatives have been successfully implemented (Chairmans report 2009).
The fact that more and more people want to visit zoos in Australia is a proof that the information is delivered to people. The desire to see the wildlife in the appearance it does not exist anywhere is one of the main reasons tourists come to Australia. Furthermore, the initiatives directed at educational facilities, breeding captive animals and conservation efforts are considered to be successful (Tribe 2001, p. ii).
The donations have increased and the zoo industry has an opportunity to enlarge their areas, bread animals and protect environment in the way they can do it. Thus, the initiative Answer the call has also been successful. It should be stated that understanding the social situation and the lack of financial support, zoo organizations do not try to set unrealistic goals. Strict consideration of the necessities and the understanding of the opportunities are considered the guarantee of the effective realization of the programs and plans set by the industry.
The Areas of Sustainability Failed to Be Addressed
Having conducted a thorough research, we failed to find the information devoted to the social issues that demonstrate a commitment to the local community. Much information is devoted to the issues which have already been discussed, but the obligation of the zoos commitment to the local community cannot be found.
This may testify about two problems, the first on is the absence of the local acts in the relation to the zoo community, or the second one is the absence of the awareness of the problem. Zoo-related society (different organizations, communities, etc.) should be responsible before the local legal structures, but there is no information devoted to this issue. Thus, it may be concluded that this are of sustainability has failed to be addressed.
Spread Implementation of Sustainable Practices in the Industry
Sustainable practices in the zoo industry in Australia have widespread implementation. The initiatives are held not only in Australia, but in some cases they are related to other countries (‘Animals Australia Conference 2006 2007, p. 6).
Many people are concerned about the change of the climate, so it may be concluded that the place of Australian zoos’ industry initiatives is not the last in the delivering of the information to the society. Australian zoos become the entertainment not only for the citizens of the country, but also for the visitors from other countries. Coming to Australia, about 53% of tourists have visited zoos that points to their desire to see the real wildlife while it still can be seen in its initial form (Frost 2010, p. 6).
Conclusion
In conclusion, it should be mentioned that the industry under discussion and the organizations have responded to the sustainable issues in the following ways. The social relations were based on the volunteer desire of the participants to work in the zoos, to deliver the information and to help animals be feed and healthy. The zoos in different parts of Australia are interconnected as they serve the same idea and try to consider similar problems.
The initiatives directed at the nature conservation and charity are the most successful. One of th main reasons of high success may b the idea that these problems are similar for different industries (not only in the tourism sphere) and counties. The social issues that demonstrate a commitment to the local community are not addressed in a proper way, still, the social activity in the problem consideration is effective and deserves additional attention.
Zoo industry in Australia involves many initiatives directed at the environment protection. Both, national and global projects are under discussion. The climate change and the air pollution are the issues which are considered within the zoo industry as this sphere is dependent on this factor.
The worsening of the climate leads to the extinction of different species which are under protection now. The opportunity to involve the society in the initiatives is a great opportunity as the lack of financial support from the government and the variety of the problems which must be considered constantly increases.
The Australian Zoo is the biggest organization in the industry which covers most of the programs. The understanding of the objectives and the possession of the necessary control lever makes it possible for the industry to develop and reach the desired goals. Even though zoo industry in Australia covers many programs and initiatives, it is possible to make some recommendations and consider the sustainable triangles which have not being addressed yet.
Recommendations
The sustainable triangle involves three aspects, economic, social and environment. It should b concluded that the industry under discussion has address all these three areas, still, the social area is not checked in a proper way.
The zoo industry involves the society in the work with the problems, but, as it has been mentioned above, there are no specific governmental acts which cold regulate the social intrusion into the programs and initiatives regulation. Government should pay more attention to the legal aspect of social participation in the programs initiated by the zoo industry.
Much attention is paid to the spread of the information about the problems which exist in the Australian zoos, but it is important to understand that not all people are aware of those problems due to the hard reach of data. People should be offered examples of how climate change may ruin the Australian flora and fauna, but not only state the problem.
Much attention should be paid to healthy conditions of the pets which live in the zoo (Woods & Bunn 2005, p. 56). There are a lot of different initiatives which may be focused on this problem. For example, the social program devoted to the children education of treating animals may be a good introduction and acquaintance with the industry.
Having analyzed the environment protection initiatives, we have concluded that most of them are directed at the conservation. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the cleaning and elimination of the harmful consequences of so specific industrial activities. Zoo industry does not pay attention to the battling with the made damage, but rather tries to prevent the future. A number of initiatives may be developed in the direction of forests, rivers, etc. cleaning (Kumar p.73).
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‘ZAA (ARAZPA) Research Award’ 2010, Conservation Ark. Web.
Figure 1. Sustainable Development Triangle (Munasingle 2004).
In this unit, I have learned several issues relating to human resource management (HRM). When addressing matters concerning the workforce, business companies should follow the laid-down rules and guidelines governing the employer-employee relationship. It is also clear to me that employees, just like employers, have their rights and the abuse of these rights would result in lawsuits.
The presence of trade unions today has helped employees in fighting for their rights. I feel that the trade unions play a great role in uniting workers, thus increasing their bargaining power. A union can also negotiate with the employer on behalf of the workers. I am convinced that the likelihood of an employee getting fair treatment from the employer will depend on the knowledge they have concerning their rights.
Today, economic crises have equally affected employees and employers. I have learned that such moves as making employees redundant, as well as dismissing them, are necessitated by economic crises, which force businesses to cut down on their expenses in an attempt to remain profitable. The remuneration of workers is often seen as one of the major expenses incurred by businesses. It is one of the major reasons why businesses resort to such practices as making workers redundant. As I had stated earlier, employees can challenge the legality of such practices by employers through labor tribunals, as well as in a court of law.
In this paper, I seek to analyze the Zoo Park case study. First, I will advise the management on how to handle redundancies. Here, I have categorically highlighted issues relating to the recognition of a trade union as a bargaining party. Secondly, I have identified problems likely to arise as a result of changing working hours and made recommendations on how to best address the issue. Lastly, I have advised the management of the best ways to address the situation leading to the accident in the zoo park’s restaurant.
Managing Redundancies
Zoo Park’s management team is faced with the challenge of making some of the employees redundant after deciding to concentrate on the monkey section of the zoo. As a result, the park wishes to close the reptile and the aviary section to expand the monkey section. The decision will, however, see the workers in the reptile and the bird sections rendered redundant. The move is opposed by representatives of the ZZZ trade union, who argue that the selection process should be carried out among all zookeepers.
The development led to bitter disagreements between the employees working in the monkey section and those in the aviary and the reptile section. The situation saw employees working in the monkey section pull out of the ZZZ trade union to deal with the Zoo park management individually. The zookeepers are claiming that they are better experienced in dealing with monkeys and that their counterparts are incapable of handling the primates, hence they (the zoo keepers) should retain their jobs.
In a ruling made in the DB Schenker Rail (UK) Ltd v Doolan (2011) case, the court cited incapability to work as a possible reason to have an employee rendered redundant. According to The Collective Redundancies and Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (1995), the management should craft a plan to smoothly roll out the redundancy program to the employees, causing minimal disputes and legal battles.
Based on the Acas code of practice’s disciplinary and grievance procedures, I argue that the management at the park should first of all give a written statement of the issue to every employee. The written statement of issue will serve as evidence that the employees were adequately notified by the management of the decision to make them redundant.
The second step in implementing the redundancy program is holding consultations about the matter. The management should hold both collective and individual consultations with the employees before the redundancy program is rolled out. According to the Employment Rights Act (1996), Zoo Park should clearly state the reasons for the redundancy program to the workers. The method of selection should also be clearly stated during the consultation period.
Moreover, the job groups affected should be stated. I also feel that the zoo park should show evidence of having put in place adequate measures to avoid redundancies and, thus, having used redundancy as a measure of last resort. In this case, I feel that since all the employees are zookeepers, they should all be issued with notices and undergo the selection process to avoid claims of unfair dismissal by those working in the bird and reptile sections.
The management can either choose to engage in collective or individual consultations in this case. According to the Employment Rights Act (1996), when the number of workers likely to face redundancy is above 20, a 30 days collective consultation period is required. In my opinion, the redundancy program is likely to affect 22 employees. According to The Collective Redundancies and the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) (Amendment) Regulations (1999), individual consultation is of great essence in the process. The view is supported by Tyler & Wilkinson (2007).
The role of a trade union in consultations must not be underestimated. Workers in the reptile and the bird section have the ZZZ trade union as their unifying factor. I feel that the zoo park’s management should first establish the legal status of the trade union. A previous formal agreement exists between the zoo keepers and the ZZZ trade union to enhance collective bargaining. According to The Collective Redundancies (Amendment) Regulations 2006, for a trade union to be a party in the bargaining, the management must first confirm if there exists any agreement between it and the union.
The agreement in this case should prove that the management recognizes the trade union as the body representing the zoo keepers working for the park. However, with the withdrawal of zookeepers in the monkey section from the trade union, the capability of the organization to continue bargaining on behalf of the workers is challenged. The trade union can no longer continue carrying out collective bargaining on behalf of all zookeepers.
Based on the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act of 1992, I argue that the management should recognize the ZZZ trade union since it has met all the requirements. It is evident that the trade union previously represented a total of 46 zookeepers. The number is far beyond the minimum requirement of 21 employees for a trade union to be recognized. I also feel that the union ought to be automatically recognized since the employees likely to be affected by the redundancy program are all zoo keepers.
Despite the resignation of the 15 zoo keepers working in the monkey section, I think that the trade union should still be recognized by the management since it still enjoys the support of the majority of zoo keepers. The zoo park still has 31 zookeepers represented by the trade union, which is way beyond the 21 members’ minimum requirement.
During the bargaining period, I will advise the bargaining parties (made up of the 15 zookeepers in the monkey section, the ZZZ trade union representing other zoo keepers, and the zoo park’s management) to come up with appropriate selection criteria agreed on by all the stakeholders. In a ruling made in the Williams v Compair Maxam (1982) case, the court came up with several guidelines to ensure free and fair redundancy. First, the selection criteria should objectively focus on such areas as employee’s discipline, attendance, and performance records. After agreeing on the selection criteria, the management should apply it fairly. Moreover, the assessment should be done by individuals who know all the zookeepers well, and who are capable of assessing each criterion correctly, thus enhancing fairness in the process.
After ensuring that the guidelines to free and fair redundancy are followed to the letter, the management can then proceed with offloading some of the workers. I would advise the management to adequately compensate the zookeepers affected by the redundancy. Alternative employment should also be given where possible (Redman & Wilkinson 2006). According to the Employment Rights Act (1996), re-engagement and reinstatement of workers should be done where possible.
In the case of the zoo park, I would advise that the high ranking workers who are rendered redundant should be considered for the extra positions in the monkey section, instead of hiring new personnel. Individuals, however, have the right to appeal if they feel they were unfairly treated. As such, the management should be prepared for possible lawsuits.
Problems Likely to Arise from Change of Restaurant and Gift Shop’s Hours
The issue of working hours in the restaurant and the gift shop is critical to the management. The implementation of the working hours’ reduction program is viewed as a breach of contract and may be subject to a court petition based on the variation of contract. To start with, I would advise the zoo park’s management to keenly study the working contracts that were previously signed between the workers and the company.
To avoid disputes, the zoo park’s management should first enter into consultations with the workers involved, rather than going ahead and implementing the program without notifying the workers. In the case of Shanahan Engineering v Unite the Union (2010), the ruling stated that despite the urgency in effecting changes in work schedules, an employer should enter into consultations with the employee.
Furthermore, implementing the working hours’ reduction program translates to the reduction of the workers’ wages as a result of the reduced working hours. The practice will, therefore, result in a variation of contract by the employer. In my opinion, the zoo park’s management should be aware of the fact that the employees will claim the contract is being unfairly varied, leading to an unlawful reduction in their salaries.
In the case of International Packaging Corporation (UK) Ltd. v Balfour and Others (2003), the court ruled that in a case where no implied terms exist allowing the employer to unilaterally reduce working hours, the employees’ claim of unfair variation of contract and reduction in wages is upheld. The move by the employer to reduce employees’ working hours will, therefore, be automatically considered as unlawful.
After carefully reviewing the terms and conditions in the employees’ contracts, the management can then come up with the best way possible to deal with the situation. If the move is lawful and in line with the terms and conditions in the contracts that exist between the zoo park and the employees working in the restaurant, I would advise the management to go ahead with the work hours’ change program. In this case, the employees have to accept the changes, failure to which disciplinary action may be taken against them by the zoo park’s management (Wilkinson 2004). In most cases, disciplinary action by the employer involves the dismissal of workers who fail to comply with the laid down rules and regulations.
It has come to my understanding that employees often agree to the terms set aside by their employers for fear of being dismissed. If the employees working in the restaurant and gift shop agree to the terms of their employer in writing, there is still a possibility that the matter will be subjected to a legal suit if the employees feel they appended their signatures under duress.
To substantiate the claim that an agreement between the workers and the employer was reached under duress, there should be enough evidence showing that the workers agreed to the terms against their will. If the workers in the restaurant and gift shop continue working even after claiming to have agreed to the terms and conditions under duress, their accusation against the zoo park will be dismissed.
I would therefore advise the zoo park’s management to monitor the behavior of the employees after the implementation of the work hours’ reduction plan to determine whether or not there is any basis for laying claims of duress. In the case of Hepworth Heating Ltd. v Akers and Others (2003), the court ruled that continuing to work, even after claims of duress, means that the employees have fully agreed with the terms and conditions of their employer.
Addressing the Situation Relating to the Accident in the Restaurant
The situation in the restaurant involves two supervisors, Jane and Jill. In my opinion, the two are rivals. They are both competing for a single position in the restaurant. The current changes in the working hours in the restaurant have left the two fighting for the job of a full-time supervisor. The accident in the restaurant saw Jane break her wrist and accuse Jill of spillage of a liquid and failure to clean it. Jane accuses Jill of breach of the company’s policy, as well as gross misconduct. If Jane is found guilty of these claims, disciplinary action will be taken against her. In this case, Jill is faced with a likely dismissal by the employer.
According to the Employment Rights Act (1996), before any disciplinary action is taken against an employee, a written statement of the issue is given to them. The written statement should properly outline the claims leveled against them. As a result, I would advise the zoo park’s management to first communicate with Jill the claims made by Jane about her alleged gross misconduct. In the case of Celebi v Compass Group (2010), the court ruled that Celebi’s dismissal was unlawful since allegations against her were not indicated. In the case of Polkey v A E Dayton (1987), however, the court ruled that under some circumstances, dismissal is inevitable, depending on the gravity of the misconduct.
According to the Employment Rights Act (1996), for a worker’s action to warrant the application of disciplinary procedures, the claims should be reasonable and must be taken into consideration to prompt action. I would, therefore, advise the zoo park to conduct thorough investigations on Jill. Before any disciplinary action is taken, the management needs to establish the consistency of Jill’s discipline-based on written records.
In this case, I will advise the management to hold a meeting where the issue is discussed. During the meeting, the case should be heard impartially. In the case of Salford NHS Trust v Roldan (2010), three principles governing dismissals were put in place during the hearing. First, the more critical the consequences of dismissal are, the more intense investigations should be. Secondly, where investigations involve only two individuals giving differing views, the employer is not required to take sides. In such a case, the employee should be given the benefit of doubt. Thirdly, the decision concerning cases deliberated on without evidence should not be overturned. In this case, I would advise that the case against Jill be dismissed since there are only two witnesses, who are saying different things.
If Jill is found guilty of spilling the liquid and failing to clean it there afterward, the decision to discipline her may be dependent on several issues. First, there must be clearly defined policies governing employees’ conduct. Second, Jill’s guilt should be assessed before any disciplinary action is taken. In the case of Bowater v NW London Hospitals NHS Trust (2011), the court of appeal ruled that there is no basis for dismissal if there are no policies governing employee’s conduct to be interpreted.
Similarly, in the case of British Home Stores v Burchell (1978), the court stated that investigations done on cases concerning employee indiscipline should be distinct from criminal investigations. Proof must not be strictly applied. On the contrary, there should be a reasonable belief based on investigations. There are several elements key to this process. They include the facts underlying the belief, reasonable grounds on which to base the belief, and reasonable investigations.
According to the Employments Rights Act (1996), the disciplinary action taken against an employee should be about their written records. Serious indiscipline cases can lead to serious disciplinary actions, including dismissal. According to the Employment Rights Act (1996), four steps should be taken before dismissing an employee. They include oral warning, written warning, final written warning, and dismissal. I would advise the management to follow the steps to avoid claims of unfair dismissal by Jill.
Conclusion
I feel that HRM is an important area of study in business administration and management. A business operator is required to know the handling of workers to avoid legal problems. Also, employees should be aware of the different legal frameworks protecting their rights to avert abuse by employers. Finally, I fully acknowledge the role of trade unions in fighting for the workers’ rights. The unions allow for collective bargaining, increasing the workers’ bargaining power.
References
Books, Journals, and Websites
Redman, T & Wilkinson, A 2006, “Downsizing”, in T Redman and A Wilkinson (eds), Contemporary human resource management, FT/Prentice Hall, London, pp. 45-89.
Tyler, MV & Wilkinson, A 2007, “The tyranny of corporate slenderness: understanding organizations anorexically”, Work, Employment and Society, vol. 21 no. 1, pp. 537-549.
Wilkinson, A 2004, “Downsizing, rightsizing and dumbsizing: quality, human resources and sustainability”, Total Quality Management, vol. 15 no. 8, pp. 21-32.
Statutes
Employment Rights Act 1996.
The Collective Redundancies (Amendment) Regulations 2006.
The Collective Redundancies and the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) (Amendment) Regulations 1999.
The Collective Redundancies and Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 1995.
Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992.
Cases
Bowater v NW London Hospitals NHS Trust (2011) IRLR 331.
British Home Stores v Burchell (1978) IRLR 379.
Celebi v Compass Group (2010) UK/EAT/0032/10.
D B Schenker Rail (UK) Ltd v Doolan (2011) UK/EAT/0053/09.
Hepworth Heating Ltd v Akers and others (2003) EAT 846/02.
International Packaging Corporation (UK) Ltd v Balfour and others (2003) IRLR 11.
Polkey v A E Dayton (1987) AC 344.
Salford NHS Trust v Roldan (2010) EWCA Civ 522.
Shanahan Engineering v Unite the Union (2010) UKEAT/0411/09.
Zoos today focus on scientific study and species protection in addition to entertaining and educating the general audience. There are around 4,000 animals at the San Diego Zoo, constituting over 800 species (“Negotiating about pandas,” 2019). The nonprofit Zoological Society, with Douglas Myers as the executive director, ran the zoo. The grounds contain more than 6,500 varieties of exotic plants that are kept alive to add ambiance and often supply a component of the natural food for other animal species (Edwards, 2019). Additionally, the San Diego Zoo is well known worldwide for its innovative commitment to animal welfare and species preservation. Myers is eager to discuss pandas with Chinese representatives for the San Diego Zoo.
Framework For the Transaction
It will be easier for people to make decisions and manage expectations if there is a framework or structure. According to Huang & Wang (2019), the great panda is considered China’s regional treasure and has frequently traveled as a goodwill ambassador, contributing significantly to the growth of cordial diplomacy. Since the Chinese government proposed the panda loan program (Yan, 2020), Myers could employ a long-term showcase loan to structure the deal. This would include the pandas borrowed by the San Diego Zoo from the Chinese administration for several years, after which they would be sent back to China. Such a structure would benefit the San Diego Zoo in numerous ways.
It is a wise diplomatic move on Myers’ part to undertake the negotiations in China and on their parameters, as it is a kind gesture. The Chinese might not be ready to give up the pandas completely; therefore, this framework would be required given that the number of pandas is declining (Huang & Wang, 2019). The San Diego Zoo will benefit from this paradigm since it would enable them to retain the pandas for long periods, resulting in a powerful magnet for tourists. The Chinese government would benefit since it could continue supervising the animals and their reproduction.
Agenda Items for Negotiating
An agenda aids attendees in meeting preparation and serves as a roadmap for the topics covered during negotiations. The agenda items would include the duration of the loan, the number of pandas, breeding privileges, and housing and treatment of the animals. The loan duration is vital since it will dictate the period the pandas would stay at the San Diego Zoo. Furthermore, it is critical to know the number of pandas that will be lent since this will help the zoo officials plan and organize having the pandas on display. Getting information on the pandas’ breeding privileges will help in effective treatment. The way the pandas are cared for and housed will affect how they are handled while they are in the park. It is pivotal for Myers to know the timing and method of the pandas’ return to China, which may depend on their departure from China.
Communication Strategy to Persuade the Chinese
Persuasion techniques are crucial because they enable marketers to overcome the doubts held by potential customers and win their trust. The first and most vital advice for persuading a prospective client is to appear confident and have sufficient product knowledge. The popularity of the San Diego Zoo as one of the top zoos in the country and the idea that the borrowing of pandas will be a significant tourist attraction could be highlighted by Myers. The San Diego Zoo’s dedication to animal welfare and protection must be emphasized to grab the Chinese audience’s attention (Burnside, 2019). Moreover, Myers can showcase the zoo’s expertise in sheltering and managing rare and threatened species of animals. Understanding the Chinese demands and expectations while also providing answers to their questions will greatly benefit Myers in the persuasion. Even though pandas are a threatened species, Myers can mention a previous transaction in the United States that went well.
Myers should emphasize the significance of the partnership between the Zoo of San Diego and the Chinese administration and the advantages that both sides have reaped from prior cooperation. Previous engagement includes China renting a pair of giant pandas from the Beijing Wildlife Park to the U.S. for a three-month touring display to express solidarity on the night of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics (Hao & Hunt, 2019). To win over the hearts of the Chinese colleagues, Myers should explain how the pandas’ arrival will increase the zoo’s earnings and how they would be delighted to offer a portion of that money to the Chinese people out of appreciation. Stressing that the pandas would receive excellent care while there and that the San Diego Zoo had the tools and knowledge needed. In terms of a bundle agreement with the negotiating for the pandas, Myers ought to consider offering a unique species to the Chinese.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the long-term loan exhibition of the giant panda will significantly benefit the San Diego Zoo. More tourists will visit the park to see the rare animal only found in China. As numerous citizens are attracted to the zoo, the revenue will increase, enabling the San Diego Animal Park to meet its objectives. The agenda items Myers will require are the loan’s duration, how many pandas will be lent out, the pandas’ reproduction rights, the habitat and treatment of the pandas, and the pandas’ relocation back to China. In trying to persuade the Chinese to allow Myers to loan the pandas, the executive director would underline the importance of the collaboration, donate a portion of the funds to China, and present a rare species as a gift.
References
Burnside, W. (2019). Relocating species. Nature Sustainability, 2(7), 539-542.
Edwards, M. (2019). San Diego: The San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park (1st ed.). Routledge.
Hao, Y. A., & Hunt, T. M. (2019). Sporting exchanges between China and the United States, 1980-1984: Inevitable politics and excessive political strings. The International Journal of the History of Sports, 36(10), 854-875.
Huang, Z. A., & Wang, R. (2019). Panda engagement in China’s digital public diplomacy. Asian Journal of Communication, 30(2), 118-140.
Negotiating about pandas for San Diego Zoo. (n.d.).
Yan, Q., Hu, Y., & Ye, H. B. (2020). Time to update China’s panda loan terms. Science, 367(6476), 373.