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Launched in 2004, the Florida Green Lodging Program is a voluntary initiative of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) that designates and recognizes lodging facilities that make a commitment to conserve and protect Florida’s natural resources. The program’s environmental guidelines allow the hospitality industry to evaluate its operations, set goals and take specific actions to continuously improve environmental performance. The Florida Green Lodging Program is administered primarily online. To become designated, facilities must conduct a thorough property assessment and implement a specified number of environmental practices in five areas of sustainable operations: Communication and Education (Customers, Employees, Public) Waste Reduction, Reuse and Recycling Water Conservation Energy Efficiency Indoor Air QualityThe Florida Green LodgingProgram benefits not only the environment but also helps designated properties save moneyand increase occupancy rates. By reducing water and energy use and reducing waste generation operating costs go down. Business is generated for state meetings and conferences through HB 7135 which gives preference to designated Florida Green Lodging properties. Designated properties also receive marketing and technical assistance benefits through the Florida Green Lodging web site, where each designated property is featured and 24/7 Web access is available to Best Management Practices and Technical Assistance. |