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Here at the Philadelphia Zoo, we work hard to make conservation part of our daily operation. As an organization whose mission it is to advance discovery, understanding and stewardship of the natural world through compelling exhibition and interpretation of living animals and plants, we are making strides to improve the way we do business to support our conservation goals.

In 2001, the Zoo formed a Green Team, a group dedicated to championing and implementing sustainable practices in the Zoo. Since that time many steps have been taken to “green” our operations and encourage environmentally-friendly behaviors in our guests.

Here are some of the green practices already in place at the Philadelphia Zoo:

 

Clean Cars

Recycle and Reuse
We recycle and reuse wherever possible:

• We recycle aluminum, glass, plastic and office paper.

• Newspapers, cardboard tubes, empty cereal boxes, phone books and old blankets are just a few of the household items collected and reused as enrichment for the Zoo's animal collection.

• Used tires that are not steel-belted are recycled and used in animal exhibits.

• We dispose used batteries and other hazardous waste appropriately.

• We recycle used printer and copier toner and ink cartridges.

• We recycle old computers by sending them to an off-site facility, where any usable parts are harvested before the machines are discarded.

• We purchase 30 percent post-consumer fiber content copier paper.

• Used uniforms in good condition are reused. Unwearable uniforms are used for cleaning rags instead of being discarded.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Graphics Department

The Zoo uses soy-based inks and paper that contains fibers that are 100 percent recycled, including at least 30 percent post-consumer waste. The Zoo uses FSC-certified papers in its publications.

In the Zoo Garden
All around our grounds, you'll see conservation efforts.

• We recycle used Zoo maps in a box at the exit each day.

• Recycling of aluminum, glass and plastic is available Zoo-wide for guests.

• Collection bins located at the North Gate entrance and in the Rare Animal Conservation Center encourage guests to “Return the Call of the Wild” by recycling their old cell phones.

Construction
When we're building or renovating, the Zoo works to be green.

• The Zoo uses resource-conserving materials and equipment wherever possible in its construction.

• Low-flow toilets have been installed as replacements or in new construction.

• Occupancy sensing auto-off light switches are installed as possible.

• Digital control systems are used in new construction and retrofitted as possible.

• Redirecting rainfall into natural infiltration beds decreases storm water run-off.

Geothermal Heating System at Zoo Shop