HOUSTON – If you’re visiting Galveston, chances are you’re familiar with Moody Gardens, known for its three glass pyramids, penguins, Palm Beach during the summer, and Ice Land during the winter.
However, Moody Gardens is more than just a resort and amusement park. It is a non-profit educational destination that utilizes nature to teach visitors and the community about wildlife and environmental preservation.
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In its mission to be more green, Moody Gardens adopted eco-friendly practices on its property. They also offer various conservation programs in which you can participate. Some of these initiatives are as simple as recycling paper and old cell phones. Scroll down to find out how you can get involved!
What you can do:
- Recycle through their Eco-cell program. Drop your old and unusable cell phones, smartphones, iPads, iPods, tablets, GPS devices, smartwatches, digital cameras, and their accompanying cords and cables in an Eco-cell box you can find in the Visitor Center.
- Support their conservation fund by purchasing artwork from animal encounters or donating directly. When you buy a piece of artwork, you will also have the opportunity to meet a cute penguin or otter up close while painting on your canvas.
- Become a volunteer and support their various conservation events. They offer opportunities for both teens and adults to get involved.
- Join as a member today! By purchasing a membership, you support Moody Gardens’ mission and learn about the wildlife they protect. Additionally, you will enjoy extra benefits while attending events or having a fun day at the theme park with your family.
Donate to these causes:
- Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA): Moody Gardens is an accredited member and participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) and Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) programs to help animal species.
- Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary (FGBNMS): Support coral reef research and see Moody Gardens’ efforts in protecting reefs in partnership with FGBNMS at the Coral Reef Lab in the Aquarium Pyramid.
- Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF): Moody Gardens is one of the participating organizations helping GBF revitalize Galveston Bay’s natural habitat by recycling oyster shells.
- The Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council: With support from Moody Gardens, both organizations campaigned to get Galveston certified as a Bird City Texas community by Audubon Texas and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 2021. In 2025, Audubon Texas recognized Galveston with the High-Flyer status for its strong commitment to protecting birds and their habitats.
- Ecology Project International – Pacuare Reserve: Moody Gardens is committed to a long-term study aimed at saving the rare agami heron and other species. Your donations will provide funding for research at the Pacuare Reserve.
Moody Gardens’ sustainable commitments:
You don’t have to do much—Moody Gardens takes care of it with these eco-friendly practices.
From partnering with Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch to serve sustainable seafood to donating unused hotel soap to Clean the World, which distributes hygiene supplies to underserved communities worldwide, Moody Gardens is committed to creating a positive impact both locally and globally.
Discover more ways they’re making a difference—and how you can be part of it here.