The Green Key is an international certification for leisure industry businesses that make significant efforts to protect the environment. The certification is awarded in Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. Blijdorp has been awarded the highest level: Gold. This means that we are committed to environmental conservation efforts beyond what is legally required.
For many years, Diergaarde Blijdorp has been committed to sustainable operations. Caring for nature is intrinsically linked to caring for the environment. When constructing or renovating animal enclosures, we focus on insulation, sustainable materials, and smart technologies to save energy. The solar panels on the Oceanium's roof and the sustainable Savannehuis are prime examples of this. Some of the energy-saving measures implemented behind the scenes at Blijdorp in recent years, such as improvements in water usage, lighting, and heating, may be less visible to visitors. Furthermore, the entire zoo is monitored for twelve key aspects: Management, Communication, Community Engagement, Water, Cleaning, Waste, Energy, Building and Greenery, Mobility, Food and Beverage, Sustainable Procurement, and Textiles.
In the coming years, the zoo will continue its efforts to further reduce its environmental impact. The Green Key 2023 certification is a valuable tool in this endeavor, as its standards are tightened every three years. In the upcoming years, Green Key Netherlands will transition to 'Duurzaam Gastvrij' (Sustainably Hospitable). Blijdorp proudly holds both certifications.