Message from the Garden Staff on Earth Day

Environmental responsibility at the Seattle Japanese Garden

The Garden Staff at the Seattle Japanese Garden is working in conjunction with the SPR and City of Seattle to take an active and positive role in improving our environmental responsibility.  Over the past several years and into the future, we have been and will increasingly be implementing changes that will reduce our emission of dangerous pollutants, reduce our use of fossil fuels, help to improve biodiversity, and protect our ecosystem.

These steps include planned replacement of gas-powered equipment, reduction or elimination of  toxic chemicals, and changes to maintenance strategies.  Our ongoing dedication to the highest quality of Garden care will not change.  In fact, we see no conflict between high quality Garden maintenance and environmental responsibility.  The traditional practices and history of Japanese Gardens emphasize the care and intention that go hand in hand with stewardship of our natural resources.

Some of these changes have been ongoing, and others have yet to be implemented.  We encourage your feedback, and would be happy to share the progress of these plans as we move towards an even more sustainable future.

Pete Putnicki

Senior Gardener

Seattle Japanese Garden