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ORLANDO - The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today
welcomed three Embassy Suites hotels to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The
Embassy Suites Orlando International Drive/Convention Center, the Embassy Suites
Orlando International Airport and the Embassy Suites Orlando North are the 48th,
49th and 50th hotels to be designated in the state. The Florida Green Lodging
Program is a voluntary state initiative that 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.
“I am proud of Embassy Suite’s commitment to environmental stewardship,” said
DEP Central District Director Vivian Garfein. “Embassy Suites is helping
conserve and protect Florida’s natural resources for its millions of residents
and visitors by becoming a Green Lodge.”
To be designated a Florida Green Lodge, hotels must follow certain green
practices. These practices include, but are not limited to, water conservation
measures through low flow plumbing fixtures and a linen reuse program and energy
efficiency is achieved by installing ENERGY STAR® appliances and programmable
thermostats. The waste reduction criteria are met by providing the opportunity
to recycle, purchasing items in bulk, purchasing recycled materials and by
recycling ink and toner cartridges. All Green Lodges must also use green
cleaners and use high efficiency air filters and clean air handler units
frequently.
"We are honored to receive certification from the Florida Green Lodging
Program for the three Hilton-managed Embassy Suites hotels in Orlando," said
Dave Ditto, area vice president, Hilton Hotels Corporation. "Working through the
designation process has been an educational experience and has definitely raised
our awareness as to what we can do to make a difference, and increased our
commitment to preserving our natural resources.”
On July 13, at his Serve to Preserve Florida Summit on Global Climate Change,
Governor Crist signed three executive orders initiating state energy-use
policies, including one that requires state agencies and departments to hold
meetings and conferences only at hotels with the Florida Green Lodging
designation 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 worldwide movement to reduce
greenhouse gases.
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 designated
Green Lodges to companies and trade organizations seeking environmentally
conscious lodging and convention facilities. With the addition of the Embassy
Suites, the program has designated 50 hotels and has more than 170 applicants.
For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit
www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging. |
