The Green Within our Gates

Happy Earth Day!

When you step inside the gates at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, you are entering a world committed to sustainability. Every decision we make impacts our environment in some way and we are doing our part to keep our Earth “green”.

Here are just a few ways in which Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is committed to helping our environment:

• ECOWARE: Supplied by Ecoware, many of our eatery products are compostable or recyclable. While here, you may use cups and utensils made from corn. Made from compostable PLA plastic, derived from U.S. grown corn, these products will naturally decompose back to organic elements. Our plates are made from 100% sugarcane fibers and naturally biodegrade when composted.

• RECYCLING PROGRAM: We recycle aluminum cans, donating the proceeds to the Zoo's animal enrichment program in partnership with the American Association of Zookeepers' local chapter. The Zoo also recycles plastic, newspaper, office paper, cardboard, paperboard, Christmas trees, ink-jet and laser cartridges, toner cartridges, cell phones and batteries. Staff reuses materials whenever possible—from using empty feed sacks and cardboard boxes for animal enrichment to using fallen trees and branches for perches and props.

• EDUCATION: Our education programs and events emphasize the importance of recycling and conservation to members of the community. Have you visited the LOFT in Rocky Mountain Wild?

• WATER CONSERVATION: The Zoo builds constructed wetlands within new exhibits, enabling the reuse of water from other exhibits, significantly reducing the demand for new water. The Zoo's horticulture program introduced native, drought-tolerant plant species throughout the Zoo and employs smart watering practices.

• ENERGY CONSERVATION: We use energy-efficient light bulbs and fixtures and clean HVAC filters regularly. We began making a switch toward use of gas-free push mowers when we discovered that running a mower for one hour produces the same amount of pollution as driving a car 350 miles!

Emphasizing minimal disruption and maximum preservation of the natural environment is a priority at the Zoo. Join us at the Zoo Sunday June 12 for EarthFest, an event highlighting what local groups are doing and what everyone can do to help conserve natural resources in their every day lives.