By Renee Wood
Victorian zoos are leading the way for sustainability, becoming the first in Australia to be powered by 100 per cent renewables.
Zoos Victoria reached the milestone late August, with Healesville Sanctuary powered by Croplands Wind Farm and solar power generation on site.
Zoos Victoria Environmental Sustainability Senior Manager Kiam Yoong said the sanctuary saved approximately 1,250 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions yearly since switching to renewables.
“At the organisation level, Zoos Victoria, which has more than 800 employees working with 5,000 animals across Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo, has reduced its greenhouse gas emission from 14,000 tonnes to just 4,000 tonnes through renewable energy, zero waste to landfill and resource efficiency programs,” he said.
Mr Yoong said the organisation efforts are to ensure the future of native wildlife.
“It is our duty to combat climate change by taking accountability for our own actions, reduction of waste, energy efficiency and embracing renewable energy. Everyone can take this simple step and join us in reducing carbon in the atmosphere,” he said.
The achievement was supported by the State Government’s power purchasing agreement.
Environment Minister Lily D’ambrosia said it’s helping Victoria tackle climate change and halve its emissions by 2030.
“We want to see more organisations transition to renewables and we’re delivering the investment needed to support that transition,” she said.
