What makes The Phipps a global standard-bearer for regeneration, renewal and sustainability?
When Phipps Conservatory opened in 1893 it was the largest and most spectacular conservatory in the U.S. Now, 120 years later, we’re honoring our history of horticultural excellence by taking things to a new level with sustainable buildings that are fully integrated into the landscape and the guest experience. Our Tropical Forest Conservatory is one of the most energy-efficient conservatories, and our Production Greenhouses are the only ones ever to be LEED certified. Our Center for Sustainable Landscapes is one of the greenest buildings in the world and is the only building ever to achieve four of the highest green standards: the Living Building Challenge, LEED Platinum, WELL Platinum and 4 Stars Sustainable SITES.
What are the key themes of sustainability today, and the mission ahead?
For us it’s about walking the walk and talking the talk. We see a great opportunity for public gardens here and worldwide to provide environmental leadership and inspiration. In order to do that, we look at everything we do--from buildings and gardening practices to food service and operations--and ask, how can we do it better? Among many other efforts, we offset with wind energy or produce on-site all the electricity we use for our entire campus. We purchase carbon offsets for all the energy we use to heat our buildings. Two of our buildings are net-zero energy buildings, and we are working on a third.
How can groups experience Phipps?
No matter the season or weather, Phipps has so much to offer. Whether strolling breathtaking seasonal flower shows in our spectacular conservatories, exploring cutting-edge sustainable practices and buildings through tours and classes, dining in our award-winning cafe or hosting your own private “green” event, we have something for everyone at Phipps. From children to seniors and everyone in between, Phipps provides a truly unique and world-class experience.