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TALLAHASSEE – Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp today joined Florida Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Michael W. Sole along with Department
of Management Services (DMS) Secretary Linda South to welcome the Quality Inn
and Suites in Tallahassee to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The hotel is the
first in Florida’s capital city, first in Leon County and the 33rd for the Green
Lodging Program.
“The Green Lodging Program is a great example of public-private partnerships
that help protect our environment and conserve energy,” said Lt. Governor Kottkamp. “I am grateful to facilities like the Quality Inn and Suites that are
leading by example and adopting cost-saving green practices.”
The Green Lodging Program is a voluntary state initiative administered by DEP
that provides the lodging industry with technical assistance, encouraging hotels
and motels to adopt cost-saving “green” practices that reduce waste and conserve
natural resources.
The Quality Inn and Suites implemented a towel and linen reuse program and
installed low-flow faucets and showerheads to conserve energy and water. In
addition, the hotel uses ENERGY STAR rated equipment, energy efficient lighting,
tinted/double-paned windows and timers on outdoor lighting to conserve energy.
Waste reduction is emphasized through a recycling program and by purchasing
products in bulk, with recycled content and reduced packaging. Indoor air
quality is improved through the use of environmentally preferable cleaners, high
efficiency air cleaners, cleaning of air handler units and coils and a
preventative maintenance schedule for all equipment and appliances.
“We are honored to be a part of the Florida DEP’s Green Lodging Program,”
said Dee Patel, General Manager of the Quality Inn and Suites. “Not only does it
help conserve Florida’s natural resources, but it makes good business sense,
too.”
On July 13, at the Serve to Preserve Florida Summit on Global Climate Change,
Governor Charlie Crist signed three executive orders initiating state energy-use
policies, including one that requires state agencies and departments to hold
meetings and conferences at hotels participating in DEP’s Green Lodging Program
starting January 1, 2008, whenever possible. The Summit was a bold first step to
explore groundbreaking technologies and strategies that will place our state at
the forefront of the growing world-wide movement to reduce greenhouse gases.
“With a firm commitment to adopting innovative ‘green’ practices, facilities
in our Green Lodging Program are leading their industry and communities by
example,” said DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole. “To preserve a healthy future for
our environment, these hotels, motels, resorts and bed-and breakfast venues
reduce water use, conserve energy and decrease their solid waste – three steps
we should all make a priority.”
Launched in March 2004, DEP’s Green Lodging Program establishes environmental
guidelines for hotels and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent
pollution. As reward for designation, Florida is recommending facilities within
the Green Lodging Program to companies and trade organizations seeking
environmentally conscious lodging and convention facilities. As of today, the
Green Lodging Program has 33 hotels designated, with almost 70 in the review and
inspection process.
“With the addition of the Quality Inn and Suites to the Green Lodging
Program, state government will now have another environmentally friendly venue
to host events and meetings,” said DMS Secretary South. “Reducing the carbon
emissions associated with state conferences and events will result in returns to
the taxpayers of Florida through reduced water usage and energy costs, allowing
us to better preserve our environment.”
Earlier this month, Governor Crist and Secretary Sole introduced DEP’s Green
Lodging Program Web site. The site contains photos and detailed information
about designated facilities as well as tips on becoming a member of the Green
Lodging Program. Additionally, visitors can offer feedback, suggest new ideas
and access links to climate-friendly Web sites.
For more information on DEP’s Green Lodging Program, visit
www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging. |
