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OCALA - The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today welcomed
the Ocala Fairfield Inn by Marriott to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The
Ocala Fairfield Inn by Marriott is the first to be designated in Marion County
and the 59th in the state. The Florida Green Lodging Program is a voluntary
state initiative 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.
“DEP is pleased to add the Ocala Fairfield Inn by Marriott to the growing
list of properties making the commitment to adopt environmentally-conscious
practices,” said DEP Central District Director Vivian Garfein. “As the first
designated Green Lodge in Marion County, the hotel is serving as an industry
leader and a great example to other hotels in the Ocala area.”
To be designated a member of the Florida Green Lodging Program; hotels must
implement a variety of 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 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 designated
members of the Florida Green Lodging Program must also use green cleaners and
high efficiency air filters, and clean air handler units frequently.
“The Ocala Fairfield Inn by Marriott is proud to be Marion County’s first
Green Lodge and a part of the Green Lodging family,” said Rene Aguilera, General
Manager. “We hope environmentally-conscious people looking to visit Ocala will
take the green status into account when choosing accommodations.”
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 Florida Green Lodging Program
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 world-wide 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
facilities to companies and trade organizations seeking environmentally
conscious lodging and convention facilities. With the addition of Ocala
Fairfield Inn by Marriott, the program has designated 59 hotels and has more
than 200 applicants.
For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit
www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging. |
