Governor Crist Applauds Green Lodging Program

Press Release

GOVERNOR CRIST APPLAUDS GREEN LODGING PROGRAM

Governor Charlie Crist today joined Secretary Michael W. Sole to applaud the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Green Lodging Program and to launch the Green Lodging Program Web site at the Hilton in the Walt Disney World Resort.

"The Green Lodging Program is an example of our firm commitment to reducing the effects of global climate change in our great state," said Governor Crist. "I am grateful to our corporate partners for leading by example as we work to adopt cost-saving green practices that decrease energy use and conserve natural resources."

This month, the Green Lodging Program will designate seven additional hotels, including the first in Tallahassee and the first two in Jacksonville. The new designations raise the total to 33 hotels, with 58 others currently in the reviewing process. Since Governor Crist's executive order initiating state energy-use policies, 25 hotels have begun the designation process.

"These designated hotels and motels reduce water use, conserve energy and decrease their solid waste, three steps we should all make a priority," said Secretary Michael W. Sole. "The success of the Green Lodging Program is evidence that there is a demand for green businesses, and every new designation is a new opportunity for Floridians to be better environmental stewards."

Governor Crist signed Executive Order 07-126 on July 13, at Serve to Preserve A Florida Summit on Global Climate Change. Beginning January 1, 2008, the executive order requires state agencies and departments to hold meetings and conferences at hotels participating in DEP's Green Lodging Program whenever possible.

The Hilton in the Walt Disney World Resort uses ENERGYSTAR appliances to conserve energy and has implemented a comprehensive recycling program for paper, cardboard, aluminum and steel cans, magazines, plastic, ink cartridges, kitchen grease, fluorescent lamps and soaps. In addition, the property installed low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads, as well as charcoal air filters to reduce heating and cooling costs.

About the Green Lodging Program

The Florida Green Lodging Program was launched by DEP in March 2004 and establishes environmental guidelines for hotels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. Green Lodging practices include conserving water by implementing a towel and linen re-use program; saving energy by using energy efficient products; closing drapes and shades to reduce heat; and turning off heating and cooling systems in unoccupied rooms. To reduce waste, designated hotels implement recycling programs, and to improve air quality, hotels use environmentally friendly air filters.

Levels of designation in the Green Lodging Program:

The one-palm designation requires an applicant to use environmentally-friendly energy, waste, air and water practices, promote green practices to guests and set up a green team at the hotel.
The two-palm designation awards lodges that have increased their environmental performance and maintained up-to-date green practices.
The three-palm designation is awarded after three years in the program with continuous improvement and commitment.

Green Lodging Program Web Site

Governor Crist and Secretary Sole also announced a new Green Lodging Program Web site. The site contains photos and detailed information about designated facilities as well as tips on becoming a member of the Green Lodging Program. Additionally, visitors can offer feedback, suggest new ideas and access links to climate friendly Web sites.

"To receive designation by the Green Lodging Program, hotels must demonstrate a commitment to resource conservation," said Governor Crist. "This Web site links Florida's families and visitors as well as companies and trade organizations with hotels that care about preserving our beautiful natural environment."

For more information on the Florida Green Lodging Program, please visit www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.

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