Aquarium Announces Goal to Expand without Increasing Energy Usage to Show Energy Efficiency is a Sustainable Business Model for Reducing Carbon Footprints
The Aquarium of the Pacific is being honored in Washington, DC with the 2009 Super Nova Star Award as the most energy-efficient business with annual
revenues under $50 million. The Alliance to Save Energy is recognizing the aquarium for its investment in energy-efficiency technologies, its climate
conservation practices, and for serving as a leader in educating the community about sustainable activities.
The Southern California aquarium has over 1.5 million visitors annually and is currently the only major aquarium in the nation to be in
its eight consecutive
year of attendance increases. Despite this growth, the aquarium has had no net increase of kilowatt usage. "We adopted efficient lighting systems,
co-generation, insulated aquarium systems, high efficiency pumps, and smart operating procedures, " said Dr. Jerry R. Schubel, Aquarium of the Pacific
president & CEO.
There are also expansion plans underway to accommodate more visitors to the aquarium. "Our goal is to continue to grow without increasing our use of energy or potable water and to demonstrate that energy efficiency is a sustainable business practice, " said Schubel.
The aquarium has been leading its industry with its efforts to minimize its carbon footprint. In 2007 the Aquarium of the Pacific became the first among
U.S. aquariums, zoos, and museums to be named as a Climate Action Leader. In 2008, the Aquarium unveiled a new environmental classroom, which became the first carbon-neutral building at any aquarium in the nation. The classroom uses solar power, a green roof, native landscaping, and a rainwater capture system among other energy and water efficiencies.
"This a tremendous honor, and I would like to applaud the Alliance to Save Energy for stressing the importance of energy conservation worldwide to achieve a healthier economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy security, " said Barbara Long, Aquarium of the Pacific vice president of special projects."
The Aquarium of the Pacific, a non-profit institution, is dedicated to instilling a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems. For information, visit www.aquariumofpacific.org or call 562-590-3100.
See also:
Announcing our 1.5 Millionth Guest
