In an inspiring development for environmental sustainability in Dallas, the Texas Discovery Gardens has achieved a significant milestone. This renowned site has been awarded the prestigious Platinum certification under the Dallas Green Business Certification Program, marking it as the first city-owned property to receive such an honor.
Achieving Platinum status signifies the highest level of recognition within the program, emphasizing the Texas Discovery Gardens’ dedication to eco-friendly practices and community engagement. As a nonprofit entity, the Gardens offer Dallas residents and Fair Park visitors a chance to engage with nature while learning about diverse plant and animal species. Notably, it stands out as the first public garden in Texas to be certified as 100% organic.
The Gardens excelled in multiple categories of the program’s evaluation, notably scoring nearly perfectly in the Ecosystems category. Other categories where the Gardens shone include Air Quality, Zero Waste, and Buildings, underpinning their strong community value. This is further enhanced by initiatives like the Rotating Art Gallery and the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium, which contribute to leadership and policy excellence.
About the Dallas Green Business Certification Program
Since its relaunch in August 2025, the Dallas Green Business Certification Program has aimed to spotlight businesses committed to sustainable practices that protect and restore the environment. This program not only helps businesses save money and extend their longevity but also ensures they give back to the community. Businesses within Dallas city limits are encouraged to participate, with the application process being free and open-ended. More details can be found on their website.
Criteria for Platinum Certification
To attain Platinum certification, a business must score over 80 points on the sustainability scorecard. This scorecard evaluates various green actions across categories such as buildings, energy, transportation, and ecosystems, aligning with the Dallas Comprehensive Environmental and Climate Action Plan (CECAP). Businesses interested in pursuing this prestigious certification can download the application from the program’s website.
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