The Aquarium’s Pacific Collections gift store received the 3 Green Globes rating in 2013, demonstrating leadership in best practices regarding energy, water, and environmental efficiency. Green Globes is a web-based program for green building guidance and certification that includes an onsite assessment by a third party.
The newly expanded and remodeled Pacific Collections gift store officially reopened to the public on May 24, 2013. The outer wall features a large-scale glass photo mural of a kelp forest captured by underwater photographer Jim Hellemn. The remodel increased the store’s square footage from 4,000 to about 6,000 square feet and also improved the overall look and feel. Improvements were made to the building’s energy efficiency, along with increasing use of materials manufactured in the United States. The store features new flooring, lighting supplemented by skylights, and a new central sales counter.
The new space helps strengthen the Aquarium’s connection to the arts and local artists. Retail staff members have selected items made by local artisans, fine art and jewelry, apparel, and other new types of merchandise for Pacific Collections. By providing Aquarium visitors with a selection of Earth-friendly, locally produced, high quality gifts and souvenirs, the Aquarium fulfills its mission to build natural capital by building social capital.