TALLAHASSEE, FLA.—The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently welcomed the Staybridge Suites to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The hotel is the second designated in Leon County and 52nd for the state. The Florida Green Lodging Program is a voluntary state initiative that provides the lodging industry with technical assistance, and encourages hotels and motels to adopt cost-saving green practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
“Staybridge Suites has shown great environmental leadership by becoming a Florida Green Lodge,” says DEP Director of Sustainable Initiatives Deas Bohn. “They are helping conserve and protect Florida’s natural resources for its millions of residents and visitors.”
To be designated a member of the Florida Green Lodging Program, hotels must follow certain green practices. These practices include, but are not limited to, water conservation measures through low flow plumbing fixtures and a linen reuse program, and increased energy efficiency by installing Energy Star appliances and programmable thermostats. The waste reduction criteria are met by providing the opportunity to recycle, purchasing items in bulk, purchasing recycled materials and by recycling ink and toner cartridges. All designated members of Florida Green Lodging Program must also use green cleaners and high efficiency air filters and clean air handler units frequently.
Socially Responsible Business Approach
“The Staybridge Suites in Tallahassee is very proud to be one of the first hotels in Florida’s Capital City to receive the Florida Green Lodging Program designation,” says Doug Artusio, chairman and CEO of Dellisart Lodging and Hospitality Co. “The Green Lodging Program is an important partnership with the business community. I believe it is our moral and corporate obligation to be good environmental citizens.”
On July 13, at his Serve to Preserve Florida Summit on Global Climate Change, 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 starting January 1, 2008, whenever possible. The Summit was a bold first step to explore groundbreaking technologies and strategies that will place Florida at the forefront of the growing worldwide movement to reduce greenhouse gases.
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, Florida is recommending designated members of the Florida Green Lodging Program to companies and trade organizations seeking environmentally conscious lodging and convention facilities. With the addition of Staybridge Suites, the program has designated 52 hotels and has more than 170 applicants.
For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.
