RZSS Edinburgh Zoo has been awarded a gold Green Tourism award just in time for World Environment Day on 5 June.

With the Zoo being part of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland – one of Scotland’s leading conservation charities – every effort has been made to help the environment in a number of different ways. From hosting green events and engaging in conservation projects, through to environmental credentials such as ISO 14001 and creating a dedicated Green Team amongst staff, the Zoo is committed to reducing its impact on the environment.

Our catering partners Compass have also ensured that we use Vegware cups and cutlery. These items are fully compostable and are in fact made from materials derived wholly from plants.

The inspection covered all aspects of sustainability, from energy and water efficiency and waste management to biodiversity, social and ethical choices.

Bruce Ritchie, Head of Business Operations and Visitor Experience at RZSS Edinburgh Zoo, said:

“We are so pleased to have been given a gold award from Green Tourism. To get the news that we have been awarded the gold standard in time for World Environment Day is very special.

“As the Zoo is so large, with so many different facets which can have an environmental impact, it is essential that we have a strong focus on sustainability and our impact on the environment. With everything under scrutiny, from preventing pollution to educating the public about the environment, reducing our carbon footprint to becoming more energy-efficient, Zoo staff and visitors are hard at work turning objectives into reality and it is great to see that rewarded.”

Thanks to the widespread use of recycled materials and a focus on sustainability, the Zoo has managed to divert an incredible 5.2 tonnes of waste away from landfill in the past year. We hope to continue this trend and, through close cooperation with our employees, suppliers, sub-contractors and customers, we aim to be a role model for sustainable businesses across Scotland.

To find out more about RZSS Edinburgh Zoo’s sustainability programme, please visit the RZSS Edinburgh Zoo website – http://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/sustainability/