A Greener Future Together

Join us in making a lasting impact on the environment! Every action counts in reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainability. Norfolk Botanical Garden is committed to environmental stewardship, from using renewable energy to supporting eco-friendly initiatives. Community engagement is a top priority as we promote responsible landscaping, evaluate our own practices, and help connect communities with nature. From supporting local fairs to advising on community gardens, we serve as a resource for all. We also partner with teen groups and schools, offering free field trips through our Day of Nature Fund. Our youth programs bring nature to Title I schools, STEM events, and scout programs, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. Together, we can create a greener future.

Your Carbon Footprint

Your carbon footprint is the most common measure of how much greenhouse gas (mainly carbon dioxide) is released into the environment from our everyday activities. There are several online calculators to help you learn how your choices impact the environment.

Get Started Today

Here’s a few tips on how to improve your environmental impact

Re-Usable Items

Use reusable shopping and produce bags. Skip plastic cutlery and straws for takeout. Carry a refillable water bottle instead of buying bottled water. There is an option for everyone. Find eco-friendly products at the Garden’s gift shop and help make a difference.

Green Energy

Consider switching to green energy to power your home. Many power companies offer this option. The Garden is 100% invested in the Dominion Energy Green Power program. This allows us to match 100% of our monthly electricity usage with Renewable Energy Certificates.

Lights Off

Reduce wasted energy and save money by turning off lights when you leave a room. Switching to energy efficient light bulbs will help save energy and money as well.

Meatless Mondays

Join the meatless Monday movement. Delicious and flavorful plant-based dishes can be a great source of protein and nutrients without the consequence of greenhouse gas emissions.

Composting

Composting reduces waste, enriches soil, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. At Norfolk Botanical Garden, we embrace sustainability by composting in our offices, turning organic waste into nutrient-rich soil for our gardens.

More Gardens

Pollinators and other wildlife depend on us to maintain the ecosystems they need to thrive. Native plants add both beauty and purpose to a garden, while also supporting biodiversity. By adding more gardens we reduce lawn space which means fewer chemicals and less air pollution from mowers, trimmers, and blowers.

Educational Videos

Looking for ways to take action for the environment? Visit our YouTube page for expert tips on sustainability, eco-friendly gardening, and the steps Norfolk Botanical Garden takes to protect nature. Watch, learn, and join us in making a difference!

Our horticultural staff come from diverse backgrounds and have varied interests. They love to share what they know, and teach a variety of classes throughout the year, from workshops, to garden tours, to more traditional offerings in classroom settings. If you have questions for them about a plant you have seen here, or about something from your own garden, please contact them at

Email us at: askaplantquestion@nbgs.org.