UNIQUE, COMPREHENSIVE, ALL-ROUND APPROACH: AZF focuses not only on the endangered animal; it also considers its surrounding ecosystem: animal, people, nature, and the economy.

LONG-TERM ENGAGEMENT: AZF always adopts a concrete all-encompassing fifteen-year plan when embarking on a project.

FEET IN THE MUD: It is only through its physical presence at its projects, by literally working with its feet in the mud, that AZF can truly make a difference.

TOGETHER WITH THE LOCAL POPULATION: The human aspect plays a crucial role in how AZF operates. The involvement of and collaboration with the local population comprise the backbone of every conservation project.
 

FORMAL RECOGNITION AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY: 
Local government organisations are reviewing current legislation in close cooperation with AZF to meet the adopted targets. AZF advises on spatial planning, identifies the animals’ hotspots, and trains local teams. The win/win situation envisioned by AZF is based on the understanding that an endangered species can only be protected if the environment benefits from this as well.

TRANSPARENCY AND MATCHED FUNDING: 
All funds received by AZF are allocated entirely to the project on behalf of which they were granted. No fees are reserved for expensive overhead structures or administration. The KMDA (the Antwerp ZOO Society) is always involved: in addition to contributions made by various donors, it also places its resources at the disposal of the project.