As zoos and aquariums evolve, their role extends far beyond conservation and education. Today, these institutions are also leaders in sustainable design, modeling how the built environment can protect ecosystems, reduce resource consumption, and create healthier experiences for both animals and people.
By integrating strategies like green infrastructure, energy modeling, and sustainability certifications, zoos and aquariums can deliver spaces that enhance animal welfare, elevate visitor engagement, and strengthen their missions of conservation and community impact.
Why Sustainable Design Matters for Zoos and Aquariums
Sustainable zoo design goes beyond reducing environmental impact. When applied thoughtfully, it:
- Enhances animal welfare through thermal comfort, naturalistic habitats, and noise reduction.
- Improves visitor experience by creating immersive environments that connect people to conservation.
- Increases operational efficiency with renewable energy, water savings, and material reuse.
- Reinforces an institution’s conservation mission and leadership role in climate action.
By blending habitat-focused design with green building strategies, zoos and aquariums can model what it means to be truly resilient, sustainable, and mission-driven.
Key Green Building Strategies for Zoos & Animal Habitats
Translating sustainability into zoo and aquarium facilities requires a thoughtful blend of design, operations, and mission alignment. The strategies below outline key approaches that make animal habitats more resilient, efficient, and welfare-focused.
- Natural Ventilation & Thermal Comfort: Passive solar design, shading, and airflow systems that maintain healthy temperatures with less energy.
- Water Conservation: Rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation, and low-flow fixtures.
- Energy Efficiency & Net-Zero Planning: Solar panels, high-performance insulation, and energy modeling for reduced carbon emissions.
- Habitat-Focused Design: Naturalistic, enrichment-rich environments that support species-specific behaviors.
- Material Selection: Durable, non-toxic, low-emitting, and locally sourced materials.
- Noise Reduction: Acoustic treatments and thoughtful spatial planning to reduce stress.
- Integrated Design Process: Collaboration among architects, engineers, animal care teams, and sustainability consultants.
Case Studies in Sustainable Zoo Architecture
Forward-thinking zoos are proving that green building strategies can do more than conserve resources—they can redefine how we care for animals and engage communities. Here are three case studies that showcase what’s possible.
Zambezi Elephant Center – Zoo Atlanta (LEED Gold)
- 35% of electricity from renewable energy
- 33% potable water reduction through rainwater strategies
- 68% of construction waste diverted from landfill
- Passive cooling and daylighting improve both efficiency and animal comfort
This project is a benchmark for LEED-certified animal habitat design that balances animal care with climate responsibility.
Savanna Hall – Zoo Atlanta
- 25.8% annual energy cost savings
- 36% reduction in potable water use
- 76% of original structural elements reused
- Indoor air quality improved with CO₂ monitoring and low-emitting materials
A model of adaptive reuse in zoo architecture, proving historic preservation and sustainability can thrive together.
Grant Park Gateway – Adjacent to Zoo Atlanta
- Green roofs and shaded parking reduce heat island effect
- Stormwater captured and routed to a visual amenity pond
- Native species planting supports biodiversity and pollinators
- Community-driven design ensures long-term neighborhood benefits
A showcase of urban green infrastructure that extends the mission of zoos beyond their walls.
The Future of Sustainable Zoo Design
As zoos and aquariums face increasing challenges from climate change, biodiversity loss, and community expectations, sustainable design will define the future of animal habitats. Projects like the Zambezi Elephant Center, Savanna Hall, and Grant Park Gateway demonstrate that resilient, resource-efficient facilities are possible. They holistically benefit animals, visitors, and the environment.
At Epsten Group, we believe zoos and aquariums can serve as powerful models for a sustainable future. By advancing conversations on net-zero facilities, resilient habitats, and innovative design strategies, we’re helping institutions worldwide strengthen their role as conservation leaders.
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