MIAMI—The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) welcomes Dream South Beach to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The voluntary state initiative provides the lodging industry with free technical assistance, encouraging hotels to adopt cost-saving green practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
“It is wonderful to see businesses implement green practices such as water conservation, recycling and energy reduction because they are not only good for business, they are good for Florida’s environment,” said DEP Sustainable Initiatives director Deas Bohn.
To become a designated member of the Florida Green Lodging Program, hotels must implement a variety of green practices. At Dream South Beach, these practices include: computerized, energy efficient management system with programmable thermostats; outdoor sensor lighting; the use of 30 percent post-consumer content office paper; linen and towel re-use program provided as an option to guests in rooms and suites; guest and staff recycling and staff educational programming; and property-wide use of green cleaners and high efficiency air filters.
“We are immensely honored to join the Florida Green Lodging Program and to be recognized by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection,” said general manager Peggy Benua. “Protecting Miami’s delicate environment is of utmost importance and Dream South Beach is proud to do our part to preserve that environment for generations to come.”
Launched in March 2004, the Florida Green Lodging Program establishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. In 2007 Governor Crist signed three executive orders initiating state energy-use policies, including one that requires state agencies and departments to hold meetings and conferences only at hotels with the Florida Green Lodging Program designation as of January 1, 2008, whenever possible. For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.
