A Qualitative Analysis of Regenerative Leadership: Organizational Culture, Conservation, and Christianity

June 19, 2026

A Qualitative Analysis of Regenerative Leadership: Organizational Culture, Conservation, and Christianity

Emily Coston | 2026

Abstract

Regenerative leadership theory emphasizes the relationships of people with each other and with the natural environment, all with an outlook toward the future and longevity. The purpose of this study was to explore regenerative leadership and its interactions with organizational culture, conservation, and Christianity. Using a qualitative approach, 11 participants working in leadership positions at Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited organizations participated in a semistructured, 10-question interview focused on organizational culture, conservation, and Christianity. Findings show that regenerative leaders create environments in which staff have high levels of job satisfaction, invest in the staff’s personal and professional development, and partner with other organizations that share similar missions and visions. Regenerative leaders acknowledge the current state of the environment and work with education programs to foster the next generation of conservationists. Regenerative leaders develop and advance facilities and initiatives while also engaging with the local community and beyond. Regenerative leaders focus on stewardship and on being good stewards of their resources. While many of these organizations carry state or federal funding, they do not approach any religion from an organizational standpoint. If they are professing Christians, Christianity can be evident in their work and actions. Contributing to the scholarly literature, this study shows how regenerative leadership theory operates within the organization and extends beyond it to other nations and the global community. In the practitioner literature, the study explains decision making from the perspective of the regenerative leader and how these decisions impact the organization and its employees. Advancing the theory of regenerative leadership, this study shows how regenerative leaders cultivate an environment that creates opportunities to make a difference for the future by fostering an engaging work environment, being mission-aligned with conservation, and being good stewards of their tools and resources.

Keywords: conservation, future generations, global impact, mission-driven organization, stewardship, sustainability

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