|
ST. AUGUSTINE - The Florida Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP) today welcomed Casa del
Mar to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The
voluntary state initiative provides the lodging industry
with technical assistance, and encourages hotels and
motels to adopt cost-saving ‘green’ practices that
reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
“As the first Florida Green Lodge in St. Johns
County, Casa del Mar is raising the bar for the lodging
industry,” said DEP Northeast District Assistant
Director Bill Green. “By reducing water use, conserving
energy, improving air quality and decreasing solid
waste, the facility is complementing the state’s efforts
to protect, restore and conserve Florida’s environment.”
Casa del Mar has implemented a linen and towel reuse
program and installed low-flow showerheads and faucets
to conserve water. In addition, the facility conserves
energy through programmable thermostats, sensors for
lighting and ENERGY STAR® rated equipment. The facility
also utilizes environmentally-preferable cleaners and
high efficiency air filters for air conditioning units
to improve air quality. To reduce waste, the hotel uses
recycled office paper, toilet tissue and paper towels.
“We are proud to be a part of the Green Lodging
program and the first hotel with this designation in
Northeast Florida,” said Casa del Mar General Manager
John D. Baird. “Casa del Mar staff and guests are
excited to contribute to preserving our natural
resources.”
Launched in March 2004, the Florida Green Lodging
Program establishes environmental guidelines for hotels
and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent
pollution. As reward for designation, Florida is
recommending Green Lodges to companies and trade
organizations seeking environmentally conscious lodging
and convention facilities. With the addition of the Casa
del Mar, the program has 22 hotels certified, with 21 in
the process of becoming certified.
For more information about the Florida Green Lodging
Certification program or to locate a Florida Green
Lodge, visit
www.floridagreenlodging.org.
| 
