Zoo New England

Over 400,000 people visit the Franklin Park Zoo each year, one of two zoos that Zoo New England operates in the Boston area. The Zoo’s mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain the natural world for future generations by creating fun and engaging experiences that integrate wildlife and conservation programs, research, and education.

Through new sustainability features funded by Sun Club, Zoo New England exemplifies efforts to sustain the natural world. A Sun Club grant of $123,014 will fund the installation of two SmartFlowers and two eight-seat golf carts. SmartFlowers are ground-mounted solar panel systems that generate 40 percent more energy than traditional solar panels systems by cleaning itself twice a day, optimizing energy production. These SmartFlowers will generate 8 kW of energy, which is enough to power two new golf carts as well as the iconic carousel at Franklin Park Zoo.