The Columbus Zoo in Ohio is expanding its sustainability efforts with the launch of a new waste reduction initiative, the W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge.
For the past several years, Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, the zoo’s conservation centre and safari park, have worked to inspire visitors and communities to reduce their plastic use.
The W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge is an expansion of this annual initiative and aims to inspire a global movement towards zero waste, including zoos and aquariums, conservation organisations, schools, businesses and communities.
The project runs through July and is a collaboration with JouleBug, a leading sustainability engagement app.
The challenge allows users of the app to track and improve their eco-friendly habits via the JouleBug app, available for free on iOS and Android.
Users can log more than 140 sustainable actions that reduce single-use plastics, minimise waste, and support environmental health.
New initiative empowers people to make changes
“At the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, we believe conservation starts with the choices we make every day,” said Kristeena Blaser, director of sustainability at Columbus Zoo and The Wilds.
“The W.I.L.D. Zero-Waste Challenge empowers individuals to take simple, impactful actions that protect wildlife and reduce waste.
“By partnering with JouleBug, we’re making it easier – and more fun – for people around the world to be part of the solution.”
Plastic waste is an urgent environmental issue, with plastic pollution affecting the health of humans, wildlife and entire ecosystems.
Raising awareness about the various forms of pollution and providing advice on how to reduce waste is a first step towards meaningful change.
In 2024, Columbus Zoo’s plastic-free campaign engaged 4,173 participants across 49 US states and 11 countries, who logged more than 103,900 plastic-free actions.
“Plastic-free living doesn’t have to be complicated,” said Tony Pease, CEO of JouleBug.
“The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds are leading the way by making climate action fun, educational, and accessible.”
Images courtesy of Columbus Zoo
