Keeping plastic out of our oceans

In 2016, the Houston Zoo staff began participating in a single-use plastic reduction challenge held every July. Participation over the past four years has resulted in several operational changes both inside the Zoo and out. Our very own board members, Cullen Geiselman and Molly Voorhees, are also helping us to save sea turtles by changing how they operate their own businesses and offices. Molly is striving to have her company, Becks Prime, go single-use plastic free to protect sea turtles and Cullen brought the Zoo staff’s single-use plastic challenge to her office. They have now eliminated single-use plastic bottles to protect wildlife.

“My officemates are super gung-ho on spreading the word now and have been speaking with the restaurants they frequent about using plastic-free options.”

— Dr. Cullen Geiselman

THE 4R'S OF ZERO WASTE

REFUSE

Animal Nutrition

has not purchased plastic storage bags since 2017, and packaging for nearly all produce and grain diets are now plastic-free.

REDUCE

Design and Engineering

has worked with Tellepsen Builders to eliminate their use of plastic bottles and k-cups on construction job sites.

REUSE

Human Resources

has transitioned to using reusable dishes for team lunches and events.

RECYCLE

Elephant Department

now recycles their grain bags into trash bags.