In a world that is beset with environmental problems of many kinds, from global warming, air and water pollution, soil loss, and the extinction of a huge number of species of plants and animals, it is a joy to read the results of this survey. We learn that the visitors to public institutions of all kinds are more apt to patronize them and enjoy them more if they practice and display various approaches to sustainability. Not surprisingly, they view botanical gardens as the greenest of all, and expect more from the botanical garden community, a challenge that my colleagues and I will take very seriously as we consider the scope of our present displays and operations and develop our plans for the future.


It is very important for all of our institutions to take seriously the leadership role that is expected of us: many people are concerned with the environment, but without guidance and examples of what they can do about it, may simply become worried and upset and fail to contribute what they can to the improvement of our overall situation.


Without the kind of careful study reported in these pages, one would not know the level of public interest in issues of sustainability. It is gratifying to read the conclusions of this survey, conclusions that give us much guidance in our own development. In this respect, the study constitutes an important contribution to our institutions and thus to our common welfare. PGAV and the Missouri Botanical Garden share a common interest in saving the planet, as do all of those for whom this report was prepared, and effective partnerships will certainly help us all to do the best possible job of serving our visitors well.


Peter H. Raven, President Missouri Botanical Garden


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8