The Detroit Zoological Society has developed a unique, green roadmap called the Greenprint. This comprehensive strategic plan guides our operations and is the plan by which we refine and improve our facilities and daily practices, develop new policies and programs and improve green literacy in our community. Follow our Greenprint Pinterest Board for green tips and ideas.

We have successfully weaned Detroit Zoo visitors off the bottle! In August 2013, the Detroit Zoological Society launched a three-year initiative to discontinue the sale of bottled water as part of our green journey. Inexpensive reusable bottles are sold at concession stands, which can be refilled for free at one of 21 filtered-water stations throughout the grounds.

We have built an anaerobic digester, which diverts over 500 tons of animal manure, bedding and food waste from the landfill and converts it into compost. We use this compost material on our gardens throughout Detroit Zoo’s 125-acre facility. The methane byproduct can be used as an alternative energy source for the Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex.

Both Buddy’s Pizza and Table 28 have been verified by the Green Restaurant Association as 3 Star Certified Green Restaurants. This prestigious award reflects a dedication and commitment to sustainable practices by the Detroit Zoological Society and its food and retail provider, SSA Group.