Lodging Facilities Make Commitment to Florida's Environment during National Green Week

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist recently signed a proclamation recognizing February 1-5, 2010 as National Green Week. In honor of National Green Week, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Green Lodging program today welcomed four new lodging facilities to the program. With the new designations, there are a total of 618 Florida Green Lodging program members.

“Participants in the Florida Green Lodging program stand out as the industry’s environmental leaders,” said DEP Director of Sustainable Initiatives Deas Bohn. “By providing guests with green alternatives, preserving the state’s natural resources, conserving energy and protecting waterways, these four facilities demonstrate environmental stewardship during National Green Week and all year long.”

To become a designated member of the voluntary program, lodging facilities adopt cost-saving green practices to conserve energy, reduce water consumption, protect air quality and reduce waste. The four new designations include:

Northwest
• Best Western Suites, Panama City
• Courtyard by Marriott Sandestin at Grand Boulevard, Destin
• Residence Inn by Marriott Sandestin at Grand Boulevard, Destin

Southeast
• Marriott’s Oceana Palms, Riviera Beach

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 Clean Vessel Act grant program and the Florida Green Lodging program offer a variety of services including 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.

To view the Governor’s National Green Week proclamation, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2010/02/files/green_week.pdf