The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee was honored to receive the 2025 Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award (GESA) for Sustainable Performance. Established in 1986, the GESA program recognizes outstanding achievements in conservation and environmental protection across the state.
This recognition highlights The Sanctuary’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, including efforts to minimize waste, conserve water, and generate renewable energy while providing lifelong care to elephants.
In announcing the award, the Department stated: “Nestled in the scenic hills of Hohenwald, The Elephant Sanctuary is now recognized not only for providing world-class animal care, but also for its commitment to environmental stewardship—proving that protecting animals and the planet are deeply interconnected goals.”
We are proud to share this honor with our community members and supporters who make these sustainability efforts possible.
Learn more about the award and its criteria.
Pictured: Jim Bryson, Commissioner of the Department of Finance and Administration, David Salyers, Commissioner of the Department of Environment and Conservation, Joseph Rizzo, Director of Planning and Sustainability at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, Janice Zietlin, CEO of The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, Dr. Charlie Hatcher, Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture