Several botanical gardens have, next to historical buildings, energy-consuming
glasshouses. The combination of historical buildings and glasshouses with obsolete
techniques results in a high carbon footprint. Next to the production of renewal energy,
the climate crisis urges a drastic change in how we renovate and heat our buildings to
become climate neutral by 2045. To this end, Meise Botanic Garden has developed an
energy master plan in which the primary energy requirement will be reduced by more
than half in the coming decade. It fits in with the goal of the European Commission to
reduce the greenhouse gas emission by 2030 to at least 55% compared to 1990. It will
be demonstrated how the combination of innovative heating techniques, renewable
energy, sustainable renovation and circular use of building materials will make it
possible to become climate neutral. It will be shown that public gardens can lead by
example, promoting sustainable practices and responsible energy consumption. In doing
so public gardens do not only lower their ecological footprint but also serve as an
inspiration to all who visit, reinforcing the importance of conservation and
sustainability.