Category Archives: Our Center

Orlando Science Center President’s Message • Summer 2021

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Science Matters - A Message from Orlando Science Center President & CEO JoAnn Newman

 

As we prepare for summer camps, I am reminded that trusting science is always a good option. Informed by the CDC’s guidelines, Orlando Science Center developed health and safety protocols to reopen safely last June after being closed to the public for three months. By understanding how the virus spreads and following the science, we have been able to engage thousands of curious visitors since then.

Science matters now more than ever. It is an essential tool for protecting the environment, helping people and saving lives. Scientists and medical professionals have confronted this pandemic head on and their expertise and understanding have helped us all navigate these strange and difficult days. Their efforts led to vaccines that have reduced infection rates and shown us the light at the end of the tunnel.

As more people get vaccinated and immunity is strengthened, we are all personally experiencing the fundamental impact science has on our wellbeing. Science literacy not only leads to a better understanding of life’s problems, but it promotes the development of skills to help solve them. Through study and experimentation, we acquire knowledge, which leads to understanding, innovation and ultimately prosperity.

Sincerely,

JoAnn Newman

President/CEO, Orlando Science Center

Orlando Science Center Continues to be a Leader in Sustainability

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Clean energy is key to a sustainable future for all. Since 2009, Orlando Science Center has continued to lead by example for environmental sustainability in Central Florida.  Since 2010, the Science Center has been certified with Gold LEED status by the U.S. Green Building Council.

 

The benefits for green buildings are plentiful, as they cost less to operate, save energy, water, generate less waste and support human health. To achieve a LEED Certification, buildings must implement practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions.  Buildings are then rated by the number of sustainability opportunities they implement. The Science Center’s gold status was based on our dedication to continued innovation regarding water conservation, energy efficiency, and overall sustainability.

 

Starting in 2009, the Science Center underwent a major retrofitting that made us the first non-profit in Central Florida, and the first retrofitted building in the area to become Gold LEED certified. The organization’s sustainability efforts have included an energy-efficient HVAC system, LED lighting upgrades, a full roof replacement, installation of a 45Kw solar power system, a building-wide recycling program and composting program to eliminate food waste.

 

On a global level, green buildings have the largest potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Green buildings can result in energy savings of 50% or more and limit global temperature rises to 2 degrees Celsius by 2050. Green buildings like OSC have reduced CO2 emissions by 34% in the U.S. and have kept millions of tons of trash out of landfills.

 

 “By using our green building as an example of how to address sustainability in our daily lives, we are able to have a meaningful discussion with our visitors about conservation,” said President and CEO JoAnn Newman. “It is our goal to create more experiences that will share a positive sustainability message and help empower others to be stronger stewards of our planet.”