• In 2002, water was the highest utility, with 83 million gallons per year used.

• By fixing leaks, using water filtration, and implementing better practices, water use decreased to 20 million gallons per year used. 

• Now, over one billion gallons have been saved, and $500,000 per year is saved!

• The zoo has begun to collect and use stormwater, which decreases the amount of water needed as well. Stormwater is collected into a pipe, channeled into a nutrient sediment baffle box underground which collects debris, and channeled into the pond near the entrance of the zoo. This keeps the pond full and avoids the need of using extra water to refill the pond manually when it becomes drier. 

• The city of Grand Rapids has the goal for 40% canopy cover by 2030, the zoo currently has 60-70% canopy cover. 

• For every tree that is removed in the zoo, two more are planted to replace it. 

• The zoo stays away from invasive species, such as Norway Maples, as they take over and shade out other plants. 

• All wood products in the zoo are made from trees in the zoo! This includes wood used for buildings, desks, etc. This keeps things local and lowers the zoo's carbon footprint. 

• Utilizing buckets to collect animal waste instead of bags, ensuring a more efficient and durable waste management. 

• The staff systematically collects waste buckets from each site, reducing the need for multiple disposable bags and minimizing the risk of spills. Waste is then taken to an off-site composter.

•  The zoo eliminated individual desk trash cans, replacing them with a central waste bin that encourages employees to be more mindful of waste disposal and reduces overall waste production.

• Affordable zoo tickets, ensuring that the zoo is accessible to all. They also provide discounts for seniors, students, and active and Veteran US Military members and their spouses. 

• The zoo provides disability accommodations like adult-sized changing tables and handrails in bathrooms.

• The zoo provides multiple nursing areas so mothers can have a comfortable visit.

• Designated rooms for children who are sensitive to noise.

• The zoo fosters community engagement through its "Zoo for the Kids" programs, designed to inspire and educate young minds in a fun, interactive environment. 

• Habitat for Heroes program

-Over 2,000 plants have been given to families, especially pollinator plants. 

-Schools have also been given materials to plant pollinator gardens. 

• John Ball Zoo prioritizes habitat restoration for ecosystems worldwide. By increasing genetic diversity, the animals JBZ houses have a higher chance of being reintroduced into their natural habitat.

• They provide clean-burning stoves to women and families in Nepal. The clean stoves use 10x less wood which prevents deforestation.

• The zoo funds a program that disables snares used for poaching in Africa. The materials are used to create art pieces to sell in the gift shop, and the send the revenue back to the communities in Africa.

• In general, the zoo forwards 3% of its growth revenue to conservation.

• John Ball Zoo excels in its sustainability initiatives and conservation efforts. However, these efforts are not very well advertised to the public.

• We suggest informing the public via posters, events, and social media.

• Another opportunity could be for the zoo to have special events, such as workshops for people to learn about different sustainability initiatives. 

-Composting workshops

-Native plants workshop

• Job shadowing to see more about how the zoo functions.