Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum Achieves Historic Certification

Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum Achieves Historic Certification

Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum has been certified as a “Classic Sanctuary” by Audubon International, a  not-for-profit organization recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

This certification sets Pinelawn apart as the first cemetery in the United States to meet Audubon International’s environmental standards.

“To reach certification as a Certified Audubon Classic Sanctuary, Pinelawn needed to implement a high degree of environmental standards in a number of areas,” Christine Kane, CEO of Audubon International, said. “These categories included environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, outreach and education, chemical use reduction and safety, water conservation, and water quality management.”

Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum spearheaded various initiatives to receive the status, including the replacement of underground fuel tanks with above-ground storage for enhanced safety and accessibility. Additionally, the introduction of a water recycling washdown station for Pinelawn’s equipment fleet was implemented, ensuring the removal of contaminants such as oil, chemicals, pathogens, and weed seeds during the cleaning process.

Pinelawn also invested in a weather station to optimize its irrigation system, reducing water usage. The cemetery also took steps to enhance wildlife habitat by creating buffer zones and habitat centers, while maintaining successful on-site community educational programs.

“Our goal is to minimize our impact on the environment,” Justin Locke, President and CEO of Pinelawn Memorial Park and Arboretum, said. “Receiving this recognition is a reflection of our dedication to the environment. We are elated to be recognized for our environmental excellence.”