The Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability is proud to announce that the Texas Discovery Gardens has joined the Certified Green Business list sponsored by the City of Dallas.
Under the Dallas Green Business Certification Program, Texas Discovery Gardens was certified Platinum. Platinum certification represents the highest recognition of this program and is reserved for those who have centered green actions and local community benefits in their approach to business. This is the first city owned property to hold this award.
The Texas Discovery Gardens provides Dallas residents and Fair Park visitors with opportunities to immerse themselves in nature and learn more about the plants and animals that make Texas and all parts of the world unique. This nonprofit organization takes pride in the fact it uses sustainable methods to maintain the park and is the first Texas public garden to be certified 100% organic.
Not surprisingly, the Ecosystems category earned a near perfect score.
Displays, such as the Rotating Art Gallery, which showcases local artists, and the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium, also helped improve the Leadership and Policy categories for strong community value. Other notable categories include a perfect score in the Air Quality category and top scores in the Zero Waste and Buildings categories.
More about the Dallas Green Business Certification Program
The Dallas Green Business Certification Program re-launched in August 2025. The purpose of this program is to highlight local businesses that prioritize sustainable practices and make conscious decisions to protect and restore our natural environment. These green actions also have the potential to extend the reliability and longevity of a business by saving money and giving back to the community in ways that will last for generations.
Any business located within Dallas city limits is encouraged to join. The application is free, and businesses can apply at any time. For more information, visit our website at dallas.gov/greenbusiness.
How to become Platinum certified
To become Platinum certified, the business must earn over 80 points on the sustainability scorecard. Businesses use the scorecard to see what green actions they implement based on different categories such as buildings, energy, transportation, and ecosystems. These categories mirror the Dallas Comprehensive Environmental and Climate Action Plan (CECAP) and reflect additional categories that highlight leadership and industry specific questions.
For businesses who would like to see if they qualify for Platinum certification, download the free application at dallas.gov/greenbusiness.
