NC Museum of Natural Sciences

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences will take a leadership role in the effort to adopt more environmentally sustainable practices.  To meet this task, the Museum staff is committed to:

 

  • Fostering a commitment to environmental sustainability among Museum staff.

  • Advocating conservation and educating the staff, state agencies, and the general public about environmental sustainability.

  •  Implementing practices that improve sustainability.

  • Reducing Museum consumption and the amount of waste generated.

  • Increasing the purchase of recycled and reusable materials.

  • When possible, supporting vendors who follow sustainable business practices.

  • Fostering the development of improved governmental recycling facilities and systems.

  • Measuring and recognizing the results of the Museum’s efforts to improve workplace sustainability.

In keeping with the Museum’s goals, the Museum was the first state government project to make environmental considerations a priority in selection of carpet suppliers. Under a pilot purchasing program, the Museum purchased nearly 90,000 square feet of recycled carpet for the new building. The carpet backing contains 100% recycled content, for a total of 16.5 tons of recycled material. The manufacturers’ sustainable business practices were considered during the selection process.

NC Museum of Natural Sciences

Future Plans ...

  • Initiatives for 2000-2001 include composting and the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles.

  • Staff are working with the Recycling Coordinator from the Department of Administration's Facility Management Division to improve recycling services.

  • A waste reduction program is in place.  To reduce waste at programs, the Museum provides reusable wares and recyclable materials and asks attendees to bring their own cups. 

  • The Museum is researching computer programs and meeting with area experts to help implement carpools and an alternative transportation system.

  • Grant funding is being sought for a "green" environmental education facility that will utilize natural and reusable sources of energy and recycled building materials and furniture.  This residential facility will also have an environmental education garden, and composting will be a component of the garden.

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