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FORT MYERS BEACH - The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
recently welcomed the Riviera Villas to the Florida Green Lodging Program.
Riviera Villas is the 2nd property on Fort Myers Beach to become a designated
member of the Florida Green Lodging Program and the 166th in the state. The
voluntary state initiative provides the lodging industry with technical
assistance, encouraging hotels and motels to adopt cost-saving “green” practices
that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
“We are proud to recognize owners James and Pat Purtell for their
environmental stewardship,” said Jon Iglehart, Director of DEP’s South District.
“The upgrades and management choices they have instituted will not only provide
their guests with a rewarding experience but enable future generations to enjoy
them as well.”
To become a 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.
“There is no rational reason not to do what we can to conserve or protect our
natural resources,” said James Purtell. “The Florida Green Lodging Program is a
daily reminder of that premise.”
Recently, Governor Crist announced the 2008 Serve to Preserve Florida Summit
on Global Climate Change this June, building on the foundation for Florida’s
energy future that began at last year’s summit. During the 2007 summit, 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 as of
January 1, 2008, whenever possible. The summit will explore technologies and
strategies to stimulate economic development in clean technologies as well as
“green” Florida’s business community.
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 Riviera
Villas, the program has 177 designated properties and more than 335 applicants.
For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit
www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.
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