PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLA.—PGA National Resort & Spa, which is nearing completion of the first phase of a multi-million dollar renovation, was recently welcomed into the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Green Lodging program. The Florida Green Lodging initiative provides the lodging industry with technical assistance, encouraging hotels and motels to adopt cost saving “green” practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
In addition to meeting the DEP’s Green Lodging requirements, PGA National Resort & Spa has instituted a resort-wide environmental policy, signed into action this summer by property managing director, Joel Paige. The policy requires that the resort’s facilities and properties will be managed in an environmentally responsible manner and that it will participate, as appropriate, in community, industry and/or government sponsored groups addressing issues affecting the communities it serves. A combined Safety Committee and Green Team monitoring effort ensures that all departments are complying with, and exceeding, resort environmental guidelines.
To date, PGA National Resort & Spa has implemented numerous environmental carbon conserving practices including: use of electronic communication vehicles; linen reuse programs; installation of low-flow aerators, sensor water faucets, low-flow toilets, compact fluorescent light bulbs and computerized air-conditioning management; use of Green Seal certified cleaning products; and extensive recycling.
Construction Site Debris Recycled
The renovations taking place at PGA National Resort & Spa created a unique opportunity for the golf destination to make luxurious upgrades to the property while enhancing conservation efforts at the same time. Debris from the construction site is being recycled, furniture and fixtures left from the project are being donated to the Habitat to Humanity Re-Store, electronic and technology products are being recycled and donated, and high-efficiency air filters are being installed.
“On behalf of the entire resort staff, our guests, and our industry partners, we are affirming our commitment to reduce our toll on the environment,” said Joel Paige, PGA National Resort & Spa managing director. “Through the extensive recycling program that has been part of our recent renovations, we’ve been able to reduce waste, recycle debris and make significant donations to local charities. Our guests won’t notice a difference in our luxurious amenities, but hopefully their children will notice a difference in our world.”
Commenting on PGA National’s participation in the FDEP’s Green Lodging program, Southeast District director Jack Long commented, “We are excited to add PGA National Resort & Spa to our growing list of properties making the commitment to adopt environmentally conscious practices. The resort is serving as an industry leader and a great example to other hotels in the area.”
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