SKADI – When AI Brings Nature to Life
The Allwetterzoo Münster is one of the region’s best-known recreational and educational institutions. With the project “Smartes Konzept für Artenvielfalt, Digitalisierung und Innovation”—SKADI for short—its offerings are now being expanded to include innovative digital components. At its heart is an AI system that offers visitors personalized information and accessible content on topics related to nature conservation and species protection. This allows content to be tailored individually to visitors’ interests and needs.
Four components for a new
visitor experience
The project is based on four interconnected elements. A discovery station serves as a place for learning and interaction, bringing nature and species conservation topics to life. It is complemented by a restroom, ensuring an accessible “restroom for everyone” is included. The digital wayfinding system guides visitors individually through the zoo, and an interactive “themed pair of binoculars” also offers insights into regional and international species conservation projects. All information is brought together by the AI system, which links the various offerings and enables personalized recommendations.
Experience nature: digitally, individually, and
accessible
SKADI makes visiting the zoo easier and more accessible: The app offers accessible content—such as content in plain language—and creates personalized tours of the zoo upon request. The digital wayfinding system can be used both on your own smartphone and via the permanently installed digital kiosks throughout the zoo.
SKADI strengthens the connection between the Allwetterzoo Münster and the nature experience areas of the Münsterland region. This raises awareness of regional nature conservation activities and creates new avenues for environmental education. With its approach, the SKADI project transforms the Allwetterzoo Münster into an innovative place of learning and discovery. The concept innovatively combines nature conservation, education, play, and animal encounters. It also provides impetus for digital and inclusive nature tourism in North Rhine-Westphalia.
