Rethinking Theme Parks: Beyond Entertainment

When most people imagine a theme park, they think of bright lights, thrilling attractions, and larger-than-life experiences—not native plants, reclaimed water systems, or wildlife habitats. Universal Beijing Resort is redefining this perception, demonstrating how sustainability can be a core part of the entertainment experience.

Sustainability from the Ground Up

From the earliest stages of development, the project team prioritized understanding the local ecosystems. This deep ecological insight shaped crucial decisions—from waste management and water reclamation to transportation and habitat preservation—ensuring that sustainability was embedded from the very beginning.

“What really stood out to me was the construction team’s commitment to environmental care—preserving the ground, protecting air quality, and safeguarding waterways. They even recreated vegetation, implemented incredible dust control measures, and guided roadways to avoid disrupting the natural landscape.” - Matthew Casto, Senior Production Art Director

One key innovation is their water reclamation system, which captures and treats wastewater on-site to be reused for irrigation and non-potable needs throughout the resort. This process significantly reduces the demand for fresh water and lessens the environmental impact of park operations.

In addition, the resort has invested in a comprehensive public transportation network that connects guests and staff efficiently while reducing reliance on individual vehicles. This initiative not only cuts greenhouse gas emissions but also enhances accessibility and convenience within the surrounding community.

A Living Landscape: Native Plants and Wildlife Habitat

Covering over 420 acres, the resort’s green spaces exceed LEED certification requirements by 60%. This expansive, thoughtfully planned landscape supports more than 577 native plant species and provides habitat for over 127 wild bird species. By sourcing plants locally, the resort promotes biodiversity while reducing maintenance needs such as irrigation and pesticide use.

"Several design elements have exceeded our expectations. By growing our own native trees and optimizing land use with native planting, we were able to reduce costs, support pest control, and make the most of the land economically. We also redirected contaminated water to create designed wetlands, preventing further pollution and enhancing the park’s ecological resilience." - Thom Boessel, Associate Director of Projects, CityWalk

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Setting the Standard: LEED Gold Certification

Universal Beijing Resort’s dedication to environmental stewardship earned it the prestigious LEED Gold certification for Cities and Communities. Established in 1993 by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED is the global benchmark for sustainable building and development, and this achievement highlights the resort’s leadership in sustainable themed environments.

Bridging Ecology and Guest Experience

The resort’s success shows that environmental responsibility and guest engagement are not mutually exclusive. Integrating local ecosystems into the design creates a living, dynamic environment that enriches visitor experiences while benefiting the planet.

“What impressed me most was that all of this work was completed years before guests ever set foot on the walkways, allowing foliage to take root and the landscape to fully settle in.” - Matthew Casto, Senior Production Art Director

Lessons for the Future of Themed Development

"This project is setting a new standard for large-scale entertainment developments. It demonstrates how attention to detail, high standards, and a focus on environmental design can have a meaningful impact on both intellectual property and the guest experience." - Thom Boessel, Associate Director of Projects, CityWalk

As sustainable development becomes increasingly important across industries, Universal Beijing Resort offers a compelling example of how themed destinations can balance creativity, functionality, and ecological responsibility. This project sets a new standard for future developments aiming to align entertainment with environmental stewardship.

Taking the Lead Toward a Sustainable Future

Universal Beijing Resort’s pioneering approach to sustainable themed design offers valuable insights for developers, designers, and operators across the entertainment and built environment industries. As environmental responsibility continues to rise in importance, it’s critical that future projects embrace integrated strategies that benefit both people and the planet.

“When I went back three years after the park opened, the transformation was incredible—rabbits, birds, and thriving foliage had replaced the construction buildings and equipment.” - Matthew Casto, Senior Production Art Director

At Casto Creative, we are committed to advancing sustainable practices that balance creativity, functionality, and ecological stewardship. By learning from trailblazers like Universal Beijing Resort, we can work together to create inspiring spaces that delight guests while preserving and enhancing our natural world.

Embracing sustainability is key to the future of themed environments—and the time to begin is now.

Green by Design: What Universal Beijing Resort Teaches Us About Sustainable Themed Environments