Founded in 1909, the Park District has long been a steward of the environment and embraces sustainable practices in the District’s mission statement, values statements, and environmental policy.
In 2025, the Park District launched GreenPath, an update to the District’s 2018 Sustainability Plan and guide to operational sustainability.
Explore the pages below to learn more about sustainability initiatives at the Park District of Highland Park
GreenPath Sustainability Plan
In July 2025, GreenPath was approved by the Park District Board of Commissioners. GreenPath is a realistic, actionable, and focused plan with five measurable goals. GreenPath is a roadmap to operational sustainability at the Park District for the next 10 years.
- Do Our Part to Maintain Clean Healthy Air
- Use Energy Efficiently
- Use Water Efficiently
- Reduce Landfill Waste
- Cultivate a Sustainability Identity for the District
GreenPath was crafted considering regional climate change threats and priorities, the accomplishments and lessons learned in implementing the District’s 2018 plan, as well as the sustainability initiatives other Park District’s are taking on. GreenPath is intended to guide the District in mitigating, preparing for, and building resiliency to regional climate change threats.
GreenPath Guiding Principles:
- Build Resiliency to Climate Change
- Reduce Climate Change Impact
- Be a Model for Environmental Best Practices
Did You Know?
- In 1992, the Park District of Highland Park was the first in Illinois to adopt an environmental policy.
- The Park District has been part of the City of Highland Park’s Green Alliance since 2010.
- Illinois Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA) recognized PDHP for green efforts in 2013.
- PDHP staff developed the District’s first Sustainability Plan in 2015.
- In 2019, the District’s current Environmental Policy was approved.
- GreenPath approved in 2025, this Sustainability Plan will guide the Park District for the next 10 years.
- In 2025, the Park District and the Parks Foundation of Highland Park were accepted into the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) Sustainability In Practice Program. Participation in this program demonstrates the District’s commitment to innovatively collaborating with sister agencies and community organizations toward a sustainable future.
