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KEY WEST - The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today
welcomed the Hyatt Key West to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The Hyatt is
the sixth facility to be designated in the Florida Keys and the 67th 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.
“The Hyatt Key West has made a commitment to the environment and set an
important example for the lodging industry,” said DEP South District Director
Jon Iglehart. “When Hotels commit to becoming a part of the Florida Green
Lodging Program, they not only help to protect and conserve Florida’s
environment, they save economic resources as well.”
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 Hyatt also participates in Florida
Ever GreenTM program, purchasing renewable energy to offset 5 percent of their
energy consumption. 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 designation as the first resort on the island to receive the One Palm
has generated a lot of excitement and pride at the property, and is a
well-deserved tribute to the efforts of our Green Team,” said Susan Santiago,
General Manager for Hyatt Key West. “Preserving the beauty of Key West is a high
priority for us and a prime example of Hyatt's commitment to giving back to the
community here. Our One Palm status also represents just the beginning of our
campaign to show continual improvement in energy and water conservation,
recycling and clean air practices as we continue to strive to reach the Three
Palm designation.”
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 the Hyatt Key
West, the program has designated 68 hotels and has more than 230 applicants.
For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit
www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging. |
