LAS VEGAS—Fifteen resorts operated by MGM Resorts International have achieved the prestigious Green Key rating for environmental conservation from the largest sustainable operations certification body in the world. The accomplishment peaks MGM Resorts’ previous achievement of 12 properties designated with “Green Key” honors.
Since a previous assessment in 2010, Bellagio has risen in rank from “4 Green Keys” to “5 Green Keys” by updating energy efficient equipment and initiating new maintenance programs. Bellagio has also implemented new operating policies and procedures, and enhanced its recycling efforts and sustainable food and beverage practices. Circus Circus Las Vegas rose from “3 Green Keys” to “4 Green Keys” in the most recent assessment.
Three other properties—ARIA Resort & Casino, Vdara Hotel & Spa and Mandalay Bay Resort—have maintained their “5 Green Keys” designation since 2010. Less than 2 percent of all current hotels that are rated have reached the elite “5 Keys” category.
MGM Resorts properties that achieved a “4 Green Keys” rating during the recent assessment include: Luxor, Excalibur, New York-New York, Monte Carlo, The Mirage, Circus Circus Las Vegas, MGM Grand Las Vegas, The Signature at MGM Grand, MGM Grand Detroit, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Miss. and Gold Strike in Tunica, Miss.
Several Properties Participate for First Time
This is the first-ever Green Key assessment conducted at The Signature at MGM Grand, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Miss., and Gold Strike in Tunica, Miss.
Green Key Global designates its ratings to hotels that exemplify the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility throughout their properties. Green Key has more than 2,900 member hotels.
Green Key evaluates hotels on a scale of one to five Keys, with five Keys being the highest ranking. Results are based on a comprehensive evaluation of the hotel’s sustainability efforts.
Green Key member properties are listed at www.greenkeyglobal.com, a resource for environmentally conscious travelers. Green Key rankings are recognized by major travel services including AAA, Travelocity and Expedia.
Committed to Continuous Improvement
“MGM Resorts has been a highly engaged Green Key partner since the program was introduced in the United States,” said Tony Pollard, managing director of Green Key Global. “It is clear from how each property performed on the updated Green Key self-assessment that MGM Resorts is committed to continuous improvement in its sustainable operations, not simply content to rest on its laurels.”
Under the leadership of MGM Resorts chief sustainability officer Cindy Ortega and the company’s sustainability division, the company continues to expand its best practices to use resources more efficiently, reduce construction impact, minimize waste, manage supply chains and increase awareness.
“The enhanced designation reflects that our standards and best practices in environmental sustainability remain consistent throughout the company and continue to be improved,” Ortega said. “This further solidifies our commitment and responsibility to improving our environmental impact.”
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