Give Kids The World Receives Florida Green Lodging Program Designation
Kissimmee, FL (PRWEB) February 11, 2014 -- The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has awarded Give Kids The World (GKTW) a “3 Palm” designation as part of its Florida Green Lodging Program. GKTW first earned a 1 Palm designation in 2009 and the 3 Palm recognition is evidence of its increased efforts to enhance green initiatives to be as environmentally conscious as possible.
The DEP voluntary state initiative provides the lodging industry with free technical assistance, encouraging hotels and motels to adopt cost-saving “green” practices that reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
“It is wonderful to see businesses implement green practices such as water conservation, recycling and energy reduction because they are not only good for business, they are good for Florida’s environment,” said DEP Sustainable Initiatives Director Deas Bohn.
To become a designated member of the Florida Green Lodging Program, properties must implement a variety of green practices. These practices include, but are not limited to, water conservation measures through low flow plumbing fixtures, a linen reuse program, and energy efficiency achieved 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 properties must also use green cleaners and high efficiency air filters.
“Receiving the Green Lodging Program Designation is something very important to all of us at Give Kids The World,” Pamela Landwirth, GKTW president said. “We are very diligent in the implementation of our internal green initiatives, from the way we use our water and utilities to our recycling and conservation efforts. We are very proud of this recognition and intend to increase our focus even more on being good stewards of the resources with which we are blessed.”
Launched in March 2004, the Florida Green Lodging Program establishes environmental guidelines for hotels, motels and resorts to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. In 2007 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 as of January 1, 2008, whenever possible. For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Program, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.
DEP’s Office of Sustainable Initiatives is comprised of three voluntary, non-regulatory programs that assist Florida industry and citizens in protecting the environment. The Clean Marina Program, the Florida Green Lodging Program and the Florida Pollution Prevention Program offer a variety of services including on-site assessments, consultations, speakers and workshops, all at no cost to citizens or organizations. The goal of the Sustainable Initiatives programs is to meet the needs of the present population without compromising resources for future generations. To learn more about DEP’s Sustainable Initiatives, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/green/.
About Give Kids The World
Give Kids The World Village (GKTW) is a 70-acre, non-profit resort in Central Florida that creates magical memories for children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. GKTW provides accommodations at its whimsical resort, donated attractions tickets, meals and more for a weeklong, cost-free fantasy vacation. With the help of many generous individuals, corporations and partnering wish-granting organizations, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 127,000 families from all 50 states and 75 countries. Visit http://www.gktw.org for more information on GKTW and its mission. For our latest news, visit Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and follow our blog at http://www.givekidstheworld.org/blog.
Mark Hoewing, Give Kids The World, http://www.gktw.org, +1 (407) 396-1114 Ext: 4259, [email protected]
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