TUCSON, ARIZ.—Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa is the first Southern Arizona resort to receive a GreenLeaders designation by TripAdvisor. The new GreenLeaders program provides travelers the ability to plan greener trips by identifying environmentally-friendly accommodations across the United States. The Westin La Paloma debuted as a Silver Level GreenLeader in the program.
TripAdvisor GreenLeaders have met a set of environmental standards developed for TripAdvisor by a leading environmental consulting firm, with input from expert partners. The more green practices a hotel has in place, the higher its GreenLeader level, which is shown on the property’s listing on the TripAdvisor site.
The Westin La Paloma Resort was also one of the first in the state to receive certification in the Arizona Resort and Lodging Association’s Green Lodging Program in 2010. Some of the programs and amenities that helped earn both of these coveted designations include new energy-efficient HVAC computerized building automation systems and Energy Star rated sliding glass doors in all guestrooms and suites; recycle bins in all guestrooms and associate work areas; use of efficient showers and faucets; eco-friendly cleaning products used throughout the resort; LED bulbs for landscape; sensor P.U.—built in radio transmitter for trash pickup only when full; use of reclaimed water for golf course maintenance; biocides applied to waste water; resort-wide conversion to T8s from T12 lighting; electric golf and utility carts; xeriscaping—only low-water, local flora adorn the property; and employee reuse, recycle, and ride share programs.
Result of Efforts of Resort Associates
“Westin La Paloma Resort associates have focused on mindfully conserving resources, employing efficient and clean practices, and subtly encouraging guests to do the same while also delivering an unparalleled level of service,” said Glenn Sampert, general manager of the Westin La Paloma Resort. “We are thrilled to see these efforts recognized and promoted by the GreenLeaders program and are committed to furthering our sustainability efforts.”
“TripAdvisor GreenLeaders are leading the hospitality industry in making efforts to improve their environmental footprint,” said Jenny Rushmore, director of responsible travel at TripAdvisor. “We greatly applaud these accommodations and are pleased to share their eco-friendly practices with our online audience of more than 200 million travelers.”
Travelers can now search for accommodations that have a GreenLeaders status on the TripAdvisor site, and view a detailed list of environmentally-friendly practices that they can expect at each location. The TripAdvisor GreenLeaders program was developed in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program, the U.S. Green Building Council, and the United Nations Environment Programme. For more information, visit www.tripadvisor.com/GreenLeaders.
Also go to the Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa.
