The Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability is proud to announce that the Dallas Zoo has joined the Certified Green Business list sponsored by the City of Dallas!
Under the Dallas Green Business Certification Program, Dallas Zoo was certified Platinum. Platinum certification represents the highest recognition of this program and is reserved for those who have centered green actions and local community benefits in their approach to business.
The largest and oldest zoo in Texas, the 106 acre park was established in 1888 and remains a popular attraction for all guests. Visitors almost forget they are in the heart of downtown as they walk along towering trees and impressive exhibits that are home to over 2,000 animals. Dallas Zoo offers a variety of programs and features so that families of all ages and backgrounds can experience the fun.
These programs also offer opportunities for guests to learn how to take better care of our environment and how we can support different species. For example, Gorillas on the Line is a campaign that encourages the recycling of old phones and other small electronic devices. These electronics contain coltan, which is a mineral directly mined from areas inhabited by gorillas. Recycling can help reduce the need for coltan and protect the homes of gorillas.
Protecting and restoring habits is one of the many actions that Dallas Zoo takes to be environmentally conscious and efficient. Their efforts did not go unnoticed as 6 out of the 10 categories in the sustainability scorecard received perfect scores in the energy, transportation, zero waste, ecosystems, food access, and industry specific categories. Other categories of note were for water resources and leadership policy.
Under the leadership and policy categories, businesses are asked to demonstrate ways they are going above and beyond whether it be through responsible purchasing, like the rainforest certified teas and coffee that the zoo provides, or in ways they are giving back to their community, like volunteering.
More about the Dallas Green Business Certification Program
The Dallas Green Business Certification Program re-launched in August 2025. The purpose of this program is to highlight local businesses that prioritize sustainable practices and make conscious decisions to protect and restore our natural environment. These green actions also have the potential to extend the reliability and longevity of a business by saving money and giving back to the community in ways that will last for generations. Any business located within Dallas city limits is encouraged to join. The application is free, and businesses can apply at any time. For more information, visit our website at dallas.gov/greenbusiness.
