The Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability announced that the Dallas Zoo has joined the Certified Green Business list sponsored by the City of Dallas. Under the Dallas Green Business Certification Program, the zoo received Platinum certification, which represents the highest recognition in the program. This designation is reserved for entities that center green actions and local community benefits in their business approach.
The Dallas Zoo, the largest and oldest zoo in Texas, spans 106 acres and was established in 1888. It houses over 2,000 animals and serves as a popular attraction in downtown Dallas. The zoo’s sustainability scorecard received perfect scores in six out of ten categories, including energy, transportation, zero waste, ecosystems, food access, and industry-specific categories. Other noted areas include water resources and leadership policy.
In the leadership and policy categories, businesses must demonstrate efforts beyond standard requirements, such as responsible purchasing and community volunteering. The zoo provides rainforest-certified teas and coffee and engages in volunteer activities. One specific initiative is the Gorillas on the Line campaign, which encourages the recycling of old phones and small electronic devices.
