Washington, D.C. (September 15, 2025) –

Georgia Aquarium was one of the first zoological facilities to be Humane Certified and has reached nearly 10 years of certification

American Humane Society, the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare practices, announced today that Georgia Aquarium has earned recertification through the American Humane Certified Zoos and Aquariums program.

American Humane Society is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare practices. Georgia Aquarium has continuously maintained its certification since first becoming Humane Certified™ in 2016.

“We are proud to continue recognizing Georgia Aquarium as a Humane Certified facility,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. “Zoos, aquariums, and conservation parks around the world play an important role in the animal welfare movement, and this recertification further signifies Georgia Aquarium as a leader in aquatic care and conservation.”

Rigorous Certification Standards:

To be recognized as Humane Certified, Georgia Aquarium passed a rigorous independent assessment that reviewed the wellbeing of animals in their care and demonstrated overall excellence in their animal care and welfare practices. The unique process is guided by the latest science and best practices and is informed by respected veterinarians and experts in the fields of animal welfare, animal science, zoology, and ethics who have decades of experience in protecting animals.

The independent validation process—which goes above and beyond to help protect animals—provides visitors with confidence that the institution is meeting a high benchmark of care. The process includes submission of a pre-audit application, followed by an onsite audit that assesses animal welfare. Factors considered during the audit include, but are not limited to, housing, nutrition, water, lighting, shade, sound, activity levels, and the training of staff who are interacting with the animals. The benchmarks are species specific.

“Receiving our recertification as Humane Certified by American Humane Society is a testament to our commitment to the care and wellbeing of all our animals,” said Travis Burke, President and CEO of Georgia Aquarium. “It also recognizes the hard work and dedication that goes into training, veterinary care, nutrition, habitat support, and overall animal care to ensure these standards are constantly upheld.”
The American Humane Certified™ program is the first certification effort solely dedicated to helping verify the welfare and humane treatment of animals living in zoos, aquariums and conservation centers across the globe. The program enforces rigorous, science-based, and comprehensive criteria for animal welfare that are reviewed by an independent Scientific Advisory Committee comprised of world-renowned leaders in the fields of animal science, animal behavior and animal ethics. The audit helps to verify good practices at deserving zoos and aquariums and offers increased assurance to visitors that the institution they are visiting is worthy of their support.

###