The Missouri Botanical Garden's mission is driven by the need to protect and conserve plants and their ecosystems. Significant resources are invested in developing and sharing new discoveries in plant science and using that knowledge to help manage those ecosystems here and around the world. However, plants and their ecosystems continue to be negatively impacted by unchecked development, waste and pollution. Inspiring and educating all members of our local region about the benefits of being good environmental stewards through responsible use of natural resources and establishing sustainable communities locally is vital to achieving the Garden's mission.