How does the Zoo support conservation?
• Recognized as a Virginia Green attraction by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). • Sponsor of NuRide, a program that encourages people to commute greener by car pooling, biking, walking, telecommuting and taking public transportation. • Reduced water usage by 45% by using drip irrigation systems in gardens, cleaning animal enclosures by sweeping instead of hosing down areas. • Reduced electricity usage by using light sensors in guest restrooms, switching to compact florescent bulbs and monitoring building lights. • Recognized by the Elizabeth River Project as a Model Level River Star for extensive project to reclaim the wetlands that border the Zoo’s Lafayette River shoreline, its oyster habitat restoration and environmental exhibits including Eco-Gardens and Rain Gardens. • Founding member of the National Elephant Center (NEC). • International Tapir Management Training Support. • Reintroduction project for bongo in Africa. • Founding member of AZA Butterfly Conse
