Sustainability
Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. From protecting the environment to conserving natural resources, we’re committed to fostering a shared sense of environmental responsibility. Together, we strive to honor and preserve the natural beauty of our Historic Estate for future generations, while making it easy for guests to get involved.
Sustainability Practices in Action
We utilize the following sustainability practices to fulill our vision of combining preservation with resilient design, conserving natural resources, supporting biodiversity, and integrating sustainability into the guest experience.
Biodiversity & Land Management
- Conserved over 600 acres of Natural Lands that enhances Filoli's biodiversity and promotes indigenous stewardship.
- Applying organic fertilizers and limited pesticides in the garden nurtures a healthy, balanced ecosystem.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
- Transitioning to 100% Greenhouse Gas (GHG)-free electricity in our buildings to replace gas furnaces and boilers.
- Purchasing all-electric landscape equipment and exclusively used LED lighting for seasonal events, such as Holidays at Filoli and Nightfall at Filoli.
Waste Reduction Initiatives
- Compost green waste from Garden onsite and use fully compostable foodware and cutlery in cafe.
- Supporting recycling and composting throughout estate to divert waste from landfills.
Efficient Water Usage
- Installed drip irrigation systems to ensure water efficiency in our gardens.
- Increased use of native and drought-tolerant plants to reduce water dependence.
- Converted nearly half of our annual display beds to perennial displays, thus greatly reducing water consumption necessary for twice annually establishing new plants.
Partnership & Community Engagement
- Collaborating with Ohlone groups to incorporate indigenous knowledge into sustainable land management.
- Sourcing over 60% of Clock Tower Shop items from local California vendors, reinforcing our commitment to local economies
Click the link below to read our NTHP article on how we are building towards a sustainable future!
Learn More
Morning in the Garden podcast
Water-Wise Beauty
The Sunken Garden overflows with cacti and succulents and sparks a conversation about sustainability. Haley O’Connor rhapsodizes about roses (and the joys of drip irrigation!), and Jim Salyards highlights the drought-tolerant makeover of the balustrade beds.
Pollinator Paradise
Meet the bees of Filoli during this morning orchard walk. Beekeeper Kendal Sager answers Willa’s many questions about queens, explains what “royal jelly” is, and shares her seasonal tasting notes for Filoli’s honey. Back in the Walled Garden, Joey Bennett and Gillian Johnson highlight the buzzing Pollinator Beds.
Videos
Get Involved
The Service Learning program provides a free learning experience on various horticulture topics, and an opportunity to volunteer to support our sustainability practices in action. Enjoy time with family and friends, meet new people, be immersed in the beauty of Filoli, and give back to this treasured community through service.