When did Disney get the idea for Zootopia?

Disney began developing the concept for "Zootopia" in the early 2000s, with initial ideas emerging around the themes of anthropomorphism and social issues. The project gained significant momentum around 2013, driven by the desire to create a modern, diverse city inhabited by various animal species. The film was officially announced in 2013 and was released in 2016. The concept evolved to focus on themes of tolerance and understanding, reflecting contemporary societal issues.