Lodging Industry Supporting a ‘Green’ Florida
Earlier this week, Governor Charlie Crist was joined by
DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole to praise the Department of
Environmental Protection’s Green Lodging program and
launch its new Web site.
Scarcely three years old, the program is gaining
recognition as a way for the lodging industry to join the
effort to protect and conserve Florida’s natural resources.
And with more than 40 million annual visitors staying one or
more nights in one of Florida’s spectacular hotels, resorts,
motels, lodges or inns, the industry’s potential to educate
the public while incorporating Green Lodging
standards is colossal.
Receiving accreditation as a participant in the Florida
Green Lodging program speaks volumes about a facility’s
philosophy regarding Florida’s environment. A designated
facility has committed to make several
adaptations/improvements – all with environmental benefits.
They include:
• Choosing energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling
appliances;
• Using appliances that require less water;
• Switching to green cleaners and fertilizers;
• Landscaping with drought resistant native plants;
• Implementing a towel and linen reuse plan; and
• Incorporating recycling programs to reduce waste.
The designation of seven new Green Lodges
occurring this month will bring the total number of
recognized facilities to 33; another 58 are in the review
process. An incentive for becoming a Green Lodge was
furthered by Governor Crist last month when he signed
Executive Order 07-126 directing state agencies to utilize
Green Lodges for conferences and meetings when
possible. The Order prompted 25 additional lodging
facilities to begin the designation process.
By staying at one of Florida’s Green Lodges
individuals are also contributing to a greener environment.
Making a choice to take advantage of a facility’s linen and
towel reuse option saves an estimated $1.50/day per guest
and conserves millions of gallons of water.
Florida’s resources are not limitless, but with
industries as large as lodging practicing conservation and
reuse, generations to follow will enjoy the same natural
treasures when they become Florida’s next environmental
stewards.
Visit the newly designed Green Lodging Web site
for exciting new information, including how to become
designated as a Green Lodging facility, locate Green
Lodges statewide and learn what specific actions each
are taking to benefit Florida’s environment, and send
personal feedback of your Green Lodging experience.
Go to
http://www.floridadep.org/mainpage/
programs/green_lodging.htm.
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