Conservation Efforts

Energy Conservation

Yellowstone National Park is the largest consumer of energy in the National Park Service. Currently, most of Yellowstone’s energy comes from coal-fueled power plants and fossil fuels, but the park is is reducing energy use by making facilities more energy efficient and increasing the use of renewable energy where possible. Most of Yellowstone’s aging buildings need energy efficiency improvements. All improvements to outdoor lighting minimize energy use while protecting the darkness and clarity of the night sky. New construction provides opportunities for us to implement more efficient designs. Yellowstone now has several small renewable energy systems in operation and we continue to look for new opportunities. Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems have been a great success at locations that do not have main line electric power.

Water Conservation

Climate change is expected to cause drier conditions in the Rocky Mountain West, so it is critical that the park conserves water and ensures that facilities and operations have minimal impact on water resources. Currently, over 250 million gallons are used for hydrating, flushing, and washing each year. Yellowstone plans to reduce overall potable water consumption and reduces use of potable water by using water-smart technology and design. Park staff are replacing toilets and faucets with more efficient models as well as repairing leaks in old water pipe infrastructure throughout the park. In 2014, park employees, visitors, and partners diverted approximately 59% of waste from the landfill through recycling and composting initiatives.

NPS

Environmental Purchasing and Waste Reduction. The park minimizes waste by purchasing environmentally-preferred items. Compliant with EPA recommendations, we preferentially purchase items with minimal packaging, biodegradable or recyclable materials, and without toxic components as well as items requiring minimal energy to produce and transport.