About
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, established in 1875, is the second oldest zoo in the country. The Zoo's aim is to inspire visitors with wildlife every single day with its 500 animal and 3000 plant species.
Proclaimed the “Greenest Zoo in America” in 2010, the Zoo has continued to lead the way in sustainability and green initiatives by greening its daily operations and reducing its impact on the environment. Through green building, solid waste management, renewable energy, water conservation, stormwater management, energy efficiency and community outreach, the Zoo has strengthened its sustainability program to have a positive impact on the planet. Most recently, the Zoo's indoor Gorilla World habitat was certified LEED Platinum in 2018. Also in 2018, the Zoo's Base Camp Cafe was named Greenest Zoo Restaurant in the 2018 Green Restaurant Awards.
Proclaimed the “Greenest Zoo in America” in 2010, the Zoo has continued to lead the way in sustainability and green initiatives by greening its daily operations and reducing its impact on the environment. Through green building, solid waste management, renewable energy, water conservation, stormwater management, energy efficiency and community outreach, the Zoo has strengthened its sustainability program to have a positive impact on the planet. Most recently, the Zoo's indoor Gorilla World habitat was certified LEED Platinum in 2018. Also in 2018, the Zoo's Base Camp Cafe was named Greenest Zoo Restaurant in the 2018 Green Restaurant Awards.
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has saved more than one BILLION gallons of water, enough to provide water (indoor and outdoor use) for 10,000 households for a year, since 2006 when it launched a major initiative to reduce water usage! They've also made a commitment to using clean, renewable energy, as well as producing our own renewable energy on site.
A Commitment to Net Zero Energy, Water and Waste: As part of this ambitious capital campaign, (http://cincinnatizoo.org/support/more-home-to-roam/) the Zoo is taking their groundbreaking, robust storm water management program to the next level to drive down non-potable water use to zero. By capturing 100% of the storm water and reusing it in the habitats, the Zoo can divert the water out of the city’s combined sewer system. The Zoo will also focus on being net zero energy by driving efficiencies throughout the existing systems and pursuing advanced energy options including solar, wind and biomass. And, with proper organic waste management, the Zoo will strive to become a net zero waste facility.
The mission and vision of the Zoo is dedicated to creating adventure, conveying knowledge, conserving nature, and serving the community. With the addition of our fourth pillar to our Mission Statement, Serving Community, we recognize the responsibility to partner with diverse and economically challenged communities in our daily work.
