Sustainability

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) is a conservation organisation and charity which aims to have a positive impact on people, communities and the environment. RZSS are working hard to improve our Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park sites, making a commitment to minimise the negative and maximise the positive environmental impacts of our operations and prevention of pollution.

RZSS will achieve continual improvement in environmental performance specifically in the following areas:

Energy Efficiency & Emission Reduction

We have been reducing our energy and fuel consumption through; installing energy efficient LED lighting and PIR’s, using electric/ hybrid vehicles as well as changing from diesel fuel to a greener gas to liquid fuel, installing waterless urinals.

Biodiversity on Site

Actively manage the biodiversity of all sites and mitigate negative impacts of any future developments. Encourage local wildlife through our Wildlife Gardens, bug hotels, bird boxes etc.

Enhancing Awareness of Sustainability

Communicate and inform staff, visitors, volunteers and other stakeholders on relevant environmental issues, enhancing their understanding and encouraging responsible behaviours through fun and engaging events and activities.

Environmental Accreditation

Ensure continued legislative environmental compliance through our existing ISO14001 accreditation. Maintain our current Gold Standard Green Tourism award.

Sustainable Procurement

Improving sustainable procurement practices throughout the society, encouraging suppliers and contractors to demonstrate similar responsibilities.

Waste Minimisation

We continue to minimise waste, prioritising re-using over recycling wherever possible. Waste at Edinburgh Zoo is entirely diverted from landfill by composting, recycling or energy recovery, and our aim is to expand this to Highland Wildlife Park.