Being "Green" is Nothing New at Cantigny

Cantigny has been recognized over the years for our lush gardens, educational museums, and extensive programs. We are especially proud of one of our most recent accomplishments -- receiving the Earth Flag from Kay McKeen of SCARCE, a non-profit environmental education organization funded by DuPage County.

Cantigny has devoted its efforts to making a bigger impact on going green by involving employees and educating them on ways to change their daily routines. Staff recycles, composts, and follows strict sanitation and crop management practices to reduce the use of pesticides.

In our offices, employees print on both sides and then recycle paper. Cantigny administrative offices recycle cardboard, ink cartridges, and print toner. During the summer months, staff closes the shades to cut down on heat gain. Cantigny has also replaced disposable utensils and plates and instead uses durable dining supplies -- cups, utensils, and plates whenever possible. The park as a whole has also replaced old cleaning supplies with green cleaning supplies that are environmentally friendly.

The Greenhouse Production department uses proactive sanitary practices to cut back and reduce chemical applications. In the Greenhouse there is an energy curtain that provides shade, but is also used to reduce electrical and gas demand. We compost plant waste and reuse pots, carrying trays, and basket frames. We also use efficient irrigation practices to reduce water demand and runoff. Cantigny even reuses materials in the garden! In the Idea Garden, there are recycled consumer goods like benches and even Croc shoes.

We have done a lot to improve the community. But by using green products, reducing waste, and making recycling even easier, we hope that our visitors will be inspired to “go green” and participate in improving our environment.