The Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority annually recognizes individuals, institutions or industries that have taken the initiative to reduce their solid waste stream through reduction, recycling and proper disposal.
This year, the Authority is honoring the Utica Zoo which continues to be an advocate for both the environment and its wildlife through their solid waste reduction, material repurposing, recycling and energy conservation program,” said Emily Albright, Authority Director
This year, the Authority is honoring the Utica Zoo which continues to be an advocate for both the environment and its wildlife through their solid waste reduction, material repurposing, recycling and energy conservation program,” said Emily Albright, Authority Director of Recycling.
The Authority is pleased to announce that the Utica Zoo is the recipient of the 2016 Recycling Champion Award.
For over 100 years, the Utica Zoo has been a regional facility and a sparkling gem for the Mohawk Valley. The Zoo has grown from its small beginnings with three fallow deer in 1914, to its present collection of over 200 animals from 80 different species. Of the 80 acres of land set aside for the Zoo’s use, 40 are presently developed.
The Utica Zoo partnered with the Authority to conduct an on-site solid waste and recycling review to profile types and volumes of waste and recyclables, and to identify its origins and handling of such waste. In April 2016, the Utica Zoo received the Authority’s RecycleOne Business Certification.
The Utica Zoo’s sustainable efforts include:
- Forming an active Green Team
- Hosting annual Earth Day events and educational programs
- Updating to energy star qualified appliances
- Donating unused produce to a local pig farmer
- Composting of animal waste, bedding and food scraps
- Using Sustainable Forestry Initiative Certified Paper
- Converting from paper to electronic records
- Replacing all light bulbs with energy efficient LED bulbs
- Proper disposal of sharps and medical waste
- Proper recycling of electronics
- Reusable food containers and preparation utensils
- The reuse and repurpose of various donations
- Providing garbage and recycling containers throughout the property
- Developing an aggressive recycling program for all events and activities at the Zoo
- Implementing waste reduction and energy efficient policies and practices
During daily operations, many materials are repurposed and reused:
- Use of shredded paper and newspaper for animal bedding and lining of cages
- Use of cardboard boxes and old toys as enrichment for the animals
- Use of fallen trees around the property for both animal habitat and play
“The Utica Zoo has done a tremendous job. They have gone above and beyond and are consistently working on new projects and innovative ways that they can improve or help the environment and its wildlife. The Utica Zoo is well deserving of this Award,” concluded Emily Albright, Authority Director of Recycling.
For more information, please contact Emily M. Albright, Director of Recycling, at (315) 733-1224 ext. 1600.