Tuesday, April 9
Green Summit Opening Session
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Join us for the opening of the third annual AZA Green Summit, hosted by the AZA Green Scientific Advisory Group (GSAG). Attendees will hear from GSAG members on the latest developments in helping AZA institutions develop sustainability into their operations. From Green Power Program, to AZA Green Guide, and the new AZA Smart Source purchasing program; help kick off this exciting event with fellow Green Summit attendees. We also will highlight the 2013 midyear green summit programs.
Collaborative Thinking Session: Bird-Safe Design
1:30 pm - 2:15 pm
Zoos and aquariums are in a unique position to lead by example by promoting “bird safe design” principals in all new construction, and to retrofit existing reflective surfaces that can be a hazard to birds. By communicating these efforts to guests, anyone can easily and inexpensively incorporate these strategies at home and participate in a meaningful way to conserve wildlife. In this session participants will be able to: Learn about the research currently underway to better understand the issues surrounding bird strikes; discuss strategies and share experiences; and learn about guidelines and regulations regarding bird safe design in several cities.
Wednesday, April 10
Sustainability Planning in Plain English
9:30 am - 11:00 am
Why should your institution be concerned about sustainable operations? What's a sustainability policy? How do you develop a sustainability plan? Whether your institution is small or large, zoo or aquarium, with little experience in sustainable practices or ISO 14001 EMS certified, this session will assist you in getting started or building on to an existing sustainability plan. Learn about sustainable operations through a step by step approach with lots of examples and time for questions and answers.
Using Your Sustainability Program to Strengthen the Bond Between Your Organization and Your Community
1:15 pm - 2:45 pm
In this session, panelists will discuss the various and creative ways that a zoo and an aquarium can connect with their community via sustainability. Whether it be community gardens, cell phone recycling, inner city environmental education, or other projects at our institutions, our neighborhoods and our regions NEED us to be a big part of the stewardship discussion. The opportunities are not only limitless, they are also incredibly rewarding to all involved.
You're Going Green! Now What? Communicating Sustainability to Your Audiences
3:15 pm - 4:45 pm
Let's face it, communicating sustainability is a challenge. Guests are overwhelmed by green practices, LEED, sustainability and conservation. The words and approach we use matter a great deal. They bring research, statistics, and initiatives alive and can change the way guests view our organizations and the world around them. Please join us to learn new tips and techniques to communicate effective messages to both internal and external guests. Time will be given for an open discussion to share what has worked (and not worked) for you.