Perth Zoo’s commitment to conservation also extends to our business operations. The Zoo aims to be a leading, working example of environmental sustainability.
Perth Zoo has an active sustainability agenda reflected in the agency’s Master Plan and Sustainability Action Plan. Endorsed by the Zoological Parks Authority Board, the Zoo’s Sustainability Action Plan and Sustainability Management Policy supports the State Government’s Sustainability Strategy and Sustainability Code of Practice for Government Agencies.
Perth Zoo’s Environmental Management Group (EMG), chaired by the Chief Executive Officer, is the driver of sustainable environmental practices throughout the Zoo.
The Zoo recycles its paper and cardboard. We encourage our visitors to recycle rubbish using the many recycling rubbish stations provided. We use bore water in our exhibits and on our gardens and have sensors on our main reticulation points in order to reduce water wastage. Animal waste is recycled onto our own gardens as manure.
Perth Zoo is a part of the Water Corporation’s Waterwise Business Program, showing its commitment to water conservation by implementing improved water management practices.
Sustainable environmental and business management activities undertaken by the Zoo in 2005-06 included:
- Preparation of a Sustainable Transport Plan to reduce the number of car trips to the Zoo in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To help prepare this plan, an accessibility audit of the Zoo and a staff survey of travel habits and factors affecting travel choices were undertaken.
- Continued participation in the Water Corporation’s Water Wise Business Program, resulting in an 18% reduction in scheme water consumption by the Zoo. The introduction of waterless urinal systems and improved maintenance activities contributed to these savings.
- Preparation of a Lighting Plan identifying actions to improve the energy efficiency of lighting in the Zoo grounds.
- Planting of fodder plantations for animal feed which also ensures the Zoo is a carbon neutral organisation.
- Continuation of recycling programs for waste produced within the Zoo including animal produce, paper, aluminum, steel, cardboard, plastics and printer cartridges.
Other actions and progress in complying with the Sustainability Code of Practice included:
- Working collaboratively with other agencies including Department of Environment and Conservation, universities and the WA Museum on recovery and research programs for threatened native species including amphibians.
- Supporting non-government in-situ conservation groups.
- Use of regular market research reports to ensure services and facilities meet visitor expectations.
- Use of customer feedback comment cards with a formal response process and focus group feedback on Zoo services.
- Raising staff awareness of the range of sustainability issues and their contributions and responsibilities.
- Continuing a strong partnership with the Perth Zoo Docent Association which makes a significant contribution to the Zoo and to the visitor experience.
