ORLANDO, FL—(April 18, 2008) It may not be easy being green but as concerns about global warming and other conservation issues become of major concern, the International Drive Resort Area is rising to the “green” challenge.

 

Eco-tourism is a growing movement that encourages environmentally responsible travel around the world. Each day its importance becomes more evident as it relates to the quality of life that the future will bring…whether at home or while traveling.

 

From changing linens and towels only upon request to using water-conserving bathroom fixtures and toilets, the area hotel industry is responding to the trend toward environmental responsibility. Likewise, visitors express positive feedback as they embrace the green trend. Meeting planners express interest in doing business with environmentally conscious facilities that offer “green meetings.”

 

As travelers become more willing to make changes regarding conservations efforts, accommodations in the I-Drive Resort area are adopting measures to demonstrate their commitment to conservation and improving the environment.

 

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has named the following International Drive Resort Area properties to the Florida Green Lodging Program:

 

The Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel

The Rosen Plaza Hotel

The Rosen Centre

Embassy Suites International Drive/ Convention Center

Embassy Suites Hotel Orlando International Drive/Jamaican Court

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando

Holiday Inn International Drive Resort

Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando

Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando

 

To be designated a member of the Florida Green Lodging Program, hotels must implement a variety of green practices. These practices include, but are not limited to, water conservation measures through low flow plumbing fixtures and 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 members of the Florida Green Lodging Program must also use green cleaners and high efficiency air filters, and clean air handler units frequently.

 

Launched in March 2004, the Green Lodging Program establishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. After receiving the designation, hotels are recommended to companies and trade organizations seeking environmentally conscious lodging facilities. (www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging)

 

The current list of I-Drive area properties that have applied for certification and are awaiting approval to the program includes:

 

Courtyard by Marriott International Drive and Convention Center

Crown Plaza Orlando International Drive

Hilton Garden Inn at SeaWorld International Center

Hilton Grand Vacation Club on International Drive

Homewood Suites by Hilton Universal

Hyatt Place Orlando/Universal

Orlando Sunshine Resort

Peabody Hotel Orlando

Residence Inn Orlando/International Drive

Staybridge Suites International Drive

 

 

The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) is the first in the country to receive certification for its recycling efforts. Recognized for recycling 40 percent of its waste, the center also uses reclaimed water for all of its landscape irrigation, has energy-efficient motors to power fountain pumps and has a control system to regulate air-conditioning and lighting levels. Hosting 300 events, shows and meetings a year, the OCCC is the second largest convention center in the U.S. (www.occc.net).

 

This summer, at his Serve to Preserve Florida Summit on Global Climate Change, Florida 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 Green Lodging 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 world-wide movement to reduce greenhouse gases.

 

 

The International Drive Resort Area has implemented plans to print all of its publications on recycled paper in 2008. This includes 500,000 Official Visitors Guides, 400,000 I-Ride Trolley maps, stationery and comment cards.

 

For more information on the International Drive Resort Area, please visit www.internationaldriveorlando.com.

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