BUFFALO, N.Y.—Buffalo Lodging Associates, LLC, a hotel development and management company, announced that four of their eight Florida hotels have been designated as “green” through the Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida Green Lodging Program. Earning the designation demonstrates a responsibility to protect Florida’s environment while providing the comforts of home. The following Buffalo Lodging hotels have demonstrated their commitment to succeed in protecting Florida’s resources: Homewood Suites UCF Area-Orlando (the first Green Lodging hotel in the UCF Area); Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Nearest Universal Orlando; Comfort Suites Universal Studios Area-Orlando; and Comfort Suites University Park/Sarasota.
The Florida Green Lodging Program was established in 2004 by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) with the intent of recognizing and rewarding environmentally conscientious lodging facilities in the state. Through this rapidly growing program, DEP encourages the lodging industry to conserve and protect Florida’s natural resources. The Florida Green Lodging Program is unique in that it covers an all-inclusive list of environmental initiatives that are specific to protecting and preserving Florida’s environment.
The lodging industry is one of Florida’s largest commercial sectors. In 2005, according to research conducted by VISIT FLORIDA, 83.6 million people visited Florida with about 50 percent of those staying in a hotel, motel or bed & breakfast. With this many visitors, the lodging industry can have a significant and positive impact on Florida’s natural resources. Properties of all sizes and types are encouraged to join the program, from the quaint bed & breakfast to the large resort complex.
Three of the most significant benefits that a facility earns when it becomes designated with the Florida Green Lodging Program are:
• Saving Money and Reducing Utility Costs. Participation in the Florida Green Lodging Program can help lower power, water and waste bills and help to cut costs in many other areas.
• Marketing to a New Audience. Designated properties will have the opportunity to use the Florida Green Lodging Program’s logo on their marketing materials, showing a commitment to proactive environmental protection and conservation by implementing more efficient practices. State and local government employees are now required to use Florida Green Lodging Program facilities for conferences and when traveling.
• Free Advertising. As a designated Florida Green Lodging Program facility, participants receive free advertising on the Green Lodging website and locator, as well as through the program’s partnerships.
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