Korea National Arboretum Staff Travel to Phipps for Sustainable Greenhouse and Building Tour

By Phipps Conservatory

On Wed., June 26, Phipps was pleased to welcome staff from the Korea National Arboretum

 (KNA) to explore Pittsburgh's conservatory. A UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserve, the KNA is home to 15 specialized plant gardens, a Forest Museum, Herbarium and Seed Bank, as well as a provider of environmental education to guests of all ages.

Earlier this month, Phipps President and CEO Richard Piacentini presented at the  International Council on Education in Botanical Gardens Congress that was held in Seoul, Korea, and had the opportunity to meet with Arboretum Director-General Dr. Youngsuk Im. After discovering the work Phipps was doing to address climate chance both in our own buildings and operations and in collaboration with fellow institutions through our Climate Toolkit  network, Dr. Youngsuk Im was inspired to change an already-planned trip to the United States to add Phipps and Pittsburgh to their visit! 

The KNA is planning to build new greenhouses, so they were interested to explore the efficiencies we've been able to achieve in ourTropical Forest Conservatory and Production Greenhouse, as well as to learn more about our award-winning net-positive energy buildings, specifically the Center for Sustainable Landscapes and Exhibit Staging Center. Additionally, Phipps presented a behind-the-scenes look at our horticulture department, orchid collection, and discussed strategies to assist pollinators.

This was another important international connection for Phipps, and we look forward to future collaborations. Following are some photos from the day's events!