Green Scientific Advisory Group

The mission of the Green Scientific Advisory Group (GSAG) is to lead the AZA community in reducing human impact on natural resources and wildlife through sustainable business operations. Its vision of operational sustainability is embedded in the culture and implemented through the strategic plan of every AZA institution.

The Green SAG is overseen by the Business Operations Committee. The GSAG advises AZA committees (e.g Wildlife Conservation Committee, Conservation Education, and Safety) and membership on green (sustainable) business practices to reduce the impact on wildlife and natural resources while preparing for the impacts of climate change.

Functions

The Green SAG is administered by a Steering Committee composed of three Officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary), all of whom are elected from the Green SAG membership. The primary functions of the Green SAG are to:

Develop a central, remote-access information source about green/sustainability practices.
Develop recommendations for establishing operational baselines for resource use while formulating a strategic plan to improve metrics over time.
Work with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to incorporate energy and natural resource conservation planning into its accreditation process.
Help minimize duplication of efforts by AZA institutions in identifying and developing green practices.
Identify areas where collaborations among zoos & aquaria may reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Enhance AZA's role as a conservation leader for green business practices.
Assist AZA-accredited institutions in fostering a "sustainability culture" that reaches employees, volunteers and guests.
Assist AZA with the administration of the ARCS Green Practices Survey to collect annual data, track trends, and report impacts of members’ business practices.

Become a Green SAG Member

Membership is non-tiered, there are no dues, and though Standing Rules are in place, there are no Bylaws. Individuals interested in becoming a Green SAG member must possess expertise in sustainable practices at a zoo or aquarium.

If you are interested in becoming involved with or obtaining more information about the Green SAG, please contact Claudia Tibbs.