Greening Our Parks: How STEM is Building a Sustainable NPS Future

Our national parks are more than just breathtaking landscapes; they are living classrooms where we can learn about the delicate balance of nature and the importance of sustainability. The National Park Service (NPS) is on a mission to protect these special places, and STEM is playing a crucial role in addressing sustainability challenges through innovative, environmentally conscious solutions.

Solar array at Cape Code National Seashore

NPS

Challenge Accepted

Imagine powering a visitor center with the Earth's natural heat or using recycled materials to build a state-of-the-art maintenance facility. These are just some of the ways the NPS is using STEM to tackle sustainability challenges.

Coast to Coast, National Parks Embrace Green Technologies

• Solar Arrays: At Cape Cod National Seashore are harnessing the power of the sun, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

• Hybrid ferries in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area are transporting visitor while minimizing pollution.

• And at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, a net-zero building is producing as much energy as it consumes, a shining example of sustainability in action.

Partnerships for a Greener Future

As part of the NPS commitment to environmental stewardship and its Green Parks Plan, the NPS is also teaming up with organizations like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to install electric vehicle charging stations at select sites in California, making it easier for visitors to explore these amazing places while reducing their carbon footprint.

Smart Parks, Smart Solutions

Technology is also key to creating more sustainable parks. Building Management Systems (BMS) to track energy and water use in real time in Zion National Park allowing park managers to make smart decisions about resource consumption. Sensors in buildings automatically adjust lighting and temperature, saving energy and reducing waste.

The Future is Green

The NPS is committed to making our parks even greener in the years to come. Imagine carbon-neutral facilities, zero-waste initiatives, and even more innovative solutions powered by STEM.

By embracing sustainability and harnessing the power of STEM, the National Park Service is ensuring that our national parks remain vibrant and healthy for generations to come. It's a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of the people who work tirelessly to protect these national treasures.