LODGING FACILITIES JUMP ON THE GREEN BANDWAGON
~Twelve new properties receive designation in the Florida Green Lodging Program~

TALLAHASSEE - Twelve properties recently jumped on the ‘green’ bandwagon by joining the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Green Lodging program, bringing the program total to 498. Florida Green Lodging properties implement environmentally friendly practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

“We are pleased with the continued growth of the Florida Green Lodging Program,” said DEP Director of Sustainable Initiatives Deas Bohn. “With so many properties recognizing the ‘gold in green,’ Florida’s lodging industry is helping to protect Florida’s precious natural resources for future generations to enjoy.”

To become a designated 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 by installing low flow plumbing fixtures and implementing 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 properties must also use green cleaners and high efficiency air filters, and clean air handler units frequently.

New designations statewide include:

Southeast
• Hampton Inn Fort Lauderdale Airport North- Cruiseport
• Hampton Inn Pembroke Pines- Ft. Lauderdale West
• Courtyard by Marriott, Coral Springs

Northwest
• Hotel Duval Tallahassee
• Courtyard Tallahassee Capital
• Hampton Inn & Suites, Estero
• Holiday Inn Select, Panama City

Southwest
• Fairfield Inn & Suites, Tampa
• Homewood Suites Tampa-Brandon
• Courtyard by Marriott Tampa-Brandon
• Hampton Inn Rocky Point, Tampa
• Holiday Inn Express Rocky Point, Tampa

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, the state is recommending designated properties in the Florida Green Lodging Program to companies and trade organizations seeking environmentally conscious lodging and convention facilities. For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.

DEP’s Office of Sustainable Initiatives is comprised of three voluntary, non-regulatory programs that assist Florida industry and citizens in protecting the environment. The Clean Marina Program, the Florida Green Lodging Program and the Florida Pollution Prevention Program offer a variety of services including on-site assessments, consultations, speakers and workshops, all at no cost to citizens or organizations. The goal of the Sustainable Initiatives programs is to meet the needs of the present population without compromising resources for future generations. To learn more about DEP’s Sustainable Initiatives, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/green/.

For more information on green summer travel, visit: www.dep.state.fl.us/green/travel.htm