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Environmental Responsibility
Since we opened Wonder Works, a Children's Museum in Oak Park, in May 2003, we have been concerned about the environment and our impact on the planet. Former board president Nevin Hedlund, who served as pro bono architect on the museum's construction, specified numerous earth-friendly materials and products, including;
-Low-flow toilets, which save water.
-Low-VOC paints, which use less chemicals and is nearly odor-free when applied.
-Carpet tiles from Interface, which enable us to replace individual squares instead of an entire room of flooring material
-Compact fluorescent light bulbs, which save considerable energy
We have also held Earth Day celebrations in conjunction with Seven Generations Ahead (SGA), working to teach children and families about how to be a better steward for the planet. In 2007, we planted our first organic garden, thanks to SGA, an Oak Park-based non-profit that works to create eco-effective communities. Children and families are encouraged to help us plant, tend and harvest the garden during the summer months.
And while some complain about our lack of parking at Wonder Works, we have found that many people enjoy walking or riding bikes to the museum, a practice that promotes individual health as well as the health of the planet.
To learn more about how you can be a part of the solution, try the following resources. This is a list we hope to continue adding to, so send us an email with suggestions at info@wonder-works.org.
http://www.sevengenerationsahead.org
http://www.greentownconference.com
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