ANNOUNCEMENTS& LATE BREAKING NEWS!
ANNOUNCEMENTS
For latest information on environmentalism and the travel industry (posted April 5, 2008), see Green Hotels by Betty Lowry in Ecotravel Section.
Willard Intercontinental, Washington, DC
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THE NEXT 100 YEARS --- A HOLISTIC PROGRAM FOR A SUSTAINABLE URBAN LANDMARK HOTEL
(Washington DC, February 6, 2007)
Under the leadership of General Manager, Herve Houdre, the Willard InterContinental has embarked on a sustainability program for the American landmark hotel. Based on the triple bottom line of Economic Viability, Social Responsibility and Environmental Protection, the holistic plan is comprised of interwoven sustainable projects designed for a luxurious urban hospitality experience in harmony with social and ecological consciousness.The program has been designed to lay the foundation for future generations of Willard employees, guests and stakeholders. "We envision our invaluable American landmark hotel to be a standard bearer in the industry for its commitment to local, national and international communities," said Houdre. Houdre, who has written a white paper entitled, Sustainable Hospitality© Sustainable Development in the Hotel Industry, and his team, have put into place a five-year roadmap that defines and quantifies the near-term SD goals for the hotel.The roadmap is divided into four subjects, Governance, Economic Viability, Social Responsibility and Environment. Each subject has associated projects and target years indicating the level of project completion expected at that time. Together with a Sustainability Team and a Director of Facilities who acts as the Willard's SD champion, the Willard has embarked on several initial projects encompassing the three "P's" --- People, Profit, and Planet.These include:
Willard Project Blue, a project that has three main components:
{1) Conserving water and reducing detergent use for towels and sheets.
(2) Applying savings to help revive the local Anacostia River through the Earth Conservation Corps Clean-up Project, which targets water pollution and provides youth employment.
(3) Providing opportunities for guests to contribute to our conservation fund.
Future savings will also focus on building wells in water-challenged areas both nationally and internationally. Recycling --- composting of food and waste material and recycle trash. Energy --- Ten percent of the hotel's electricity is garnered from renewable wind electricity, with the final goal being 100%. All bulbs throughout the hotel have been changed to low-impact fluorescents, which though very high tech, look like traditional light bulbs and emanate pleasing light. The bulbs save the hotel money and reduce energy consumption by 9.3% per year. Food Smart --- purchasing supplies that are organic, grown locally and raised in a humane ethical manner without pesticides or growth hormones whenever available and wherever possible. Environment --- The Willard has adopted Pershing Park located across the street from the hotel. Teams of employees help clean the park, weed the garden, and are working together with the Pershing Park and the Downtown Business Improvement District to enhance this once neglected green space so central to one of the most visited areas of the nation's capital. Giving Back --- Children's Hospital is recipient of donations of turkeys (for Thanksgiving) and holiday toy drives. Donations received from the hotel's free December choral music program. Other efforts include: Blood Drives, "Thank You" meals for wounded troops, Marathon runs for fundraising, food drives for DC Kitchen, supply donations to local shelters and a volunteer reading program for children in need. Employee Wellness --- A variety of programs have been made available including, smoking cessation, weight loss and bike to work. Some of Houdre's inspiration came from the nation's 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt, who occupied the White House in the early 1900's when the construction of the New Willard Hotel took place. Roosevelt was a devoted supporter of social causes and one of the nation's first conservationist leaders. In burgeoning 20th century America, the term "Sustainability" had certainly not yet come into vogue, but President Roosevelt's many actions to preserve America's natural beauty and environment and his pioneering work on behalf of children and the disadvantaged embodied the ideals of current day sustainability initiatives.The Willard InterContinental is an American institution that has hosted almost every U.S. president since Franklin Pierce, in 1853. It was at the Willard that Julia Ward Howe wrote The Battle Hymn of the Republic, where President Ulysses S. Grant popularized the term Lobbyist, and where Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King wrote his renowned "I Have A Dream" speech.
1401 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W; Washington D.C. 20004
telephone 202-628-9100 or 800-827-1747
Demonstrating that luxury travel and energy conservation
are not mutually exclusive
(Salt Lake City UT, March 30, 2007)BelleHavens announces the launch of GreenHome, a specific energy conservation program for its portfolio of private homes, making it the first destination club to undertake such an initiative. The program benefits will be triple fold. It will save energy, help the environment and, in the process, will ultimately save the members money. All of this without compromising the luxury service and amenities for which BelleHavens is known.The first step BelleHavens took toward this greening initiative was to identify controllable waste areas and institute measures for reducing energy consumption in the Club homes, as well as in the Club's own corporate headquarters in Salt Lake City.In addition to its now standardized energy-saving measures, BelleHavens has aligned with Carbonfund.org, a nonprofit organization that helps companies reduce their carbon footprint and support climate-friendly projects. The decision to support Carbonfund.org was based on their policy of directing an impressive 93% of their proceeds to offset emission reduction projects and environmental outreach, with only 7% earmarked for administrative purposes. With the assistance of Carbonfund.org, BelleHavens has been able to determine the emission tonnage for energy use at the homes, as well as the corporate office and executive business travel.The primary objective of BelleHavens GreenHome initiative is to consume less energy wherever possible and to help offset areas that cannot be reduced. The new program consists of a number of tactics that as a whole will make a large difference through reducing waste and using less energy and fossil fuel. The stated goals are to:
Since its inception in 2004, BelleHavens has distinguished itself as the most pragmatic club in the sector. Member interests and protections have always been the genesis of policy shaping moves. For example, BelleHavens has evolved at a strategically conservative pace, while remaining fiscally sound and establishing solid policies and procedures for the strict guardianship of member deposits. BelleHavens member deposits are backed by equity in a club of that owns a diversified and debt-free portfolio of real estate. This differs from most other clubs, which offer non-equity memberships and use significant debt and leases to acquire their properties. This strategy, now coupled with the GreenHome initiative, positions BelleHavens as truly the most sustainable club in the destination club space."We launched the GreenHome initiative to ensure that as a luxury product we were doing our share to make a difference protecting the environment, as well as the interests of our members," said Darin Gilson, BelleHavens Founder and CEO. "In fact, the initial idea came from a BelleHavens member. It then became clear that most of our members and staff share the same thinking and wanted to incorporate more social responsibility into our product.""Carbonfund.org applauds BelleHavens for their leadership on climate change," said Carbonfund.org Executive Director Eric Carlson. "Climate change affects all of us, we are all responsible for it and we all must be part of the solution. BelleHavens carbon offset program signifies a new direction for the luxury travel industry that we hope will be emulated by many others."From BelleHavens' perspective, the shared home concept, even at the luxury, multi-million dollar level, is more environmentally sensitive than other second (or third) home alternatives because fewer homes will need to be constructed, saving more open space and using less utilities and materials.Each of the following components of the GreenHome Initiative will be incorporated into the current homes through upgrades, additions and retrofitting, and will serve as the standard for all new properties that come into the portfolio from here forward:
BelleHavens was launched in late 2004 and is the leading equity destination club and the only member-owned club in the industry. The club offers members superior asset protection and the opportunity for customized luxury travel experiences.Carbonfund.org is the country's leading carbon reduction and offset organization with offices in the Washington DC area and San Francisco. Carbonfund.org educates the public about the dangers of climate change and makes it easy and affordable for individuals, businesses and organizations to reduce their climate impact. Carbonfund.org is reducing the threat of climate change by promoting cost-effective carbon reductions and supporting renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation projects globally that reduce and offset carbon dioxide emissions. Carbonfund.org works with over 150 corporate and non-profit partners including the Earth Day Network, National Wildlife Federation, Dell Computers, Lancome Cosmetics, and Working Assets.
192 Lexington Avenue, Suite 805
New York, NY 10016
FITS NATURALLY
(June 12, 2007; Paul Kayemba - Tel: 850-488-5607, ext. 311; Fax: 850-224-2938; E-Mail: paulk@VISITFLORIDA.org)Florida's tourism industry is doing its part in the movement to preserve the environment. With guidance from sources like the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, organizations and attractions throughout the state have begun efforts to conserve energy, cut waste and effectively use natural resources. Many additional organizations are pursuing green initiatives, and VISIT FLORIDA, the state's official source for travel planning, is proud to recognize their efforts.Below is a list of destinations, organizations and attractions that have already taken steps to minimize their impact on Florida's environment(arranged by city from north to south).
: The "environmentally-intelligent" community of Harmony in East Osceola County is truly unique. Within the community's 11,000 acres, residents have designated nearly 70 percent as protected land. In an effort to keep the community clean and to preserve the surrounding environment, Harmony has also established "green" guidelines for its residents. Each home is Energy Star certified and every resident is committed to earth's preservation. The community is also home to Central Florida's only Johnny Miller-designed golf course. The course not only provides a great golf experience, but is also a protected environmental preserve. Environmental education is never far away with help from the Harmony Institute, a non-profit organization housed within the community. The institution's mission promotes Harmony's cause: to maintain human health and well-being through the promotion of a harmonious ecosystem.Port Saint Joe: The Turtle Beach Inn is a certified member of the DEP's Florida Green Lodging Program (FGLP). While providing a breathtaking beach getaway for guests, the bed and breakfast has remained conscious of their impact on the environment. The inn conserves water, encourages clean air practices and strives to reduce energy waste. (850) 229-9366.Steinhatchee: The Steinhatchee River Inn joins several other state resorts in receiving FGLP Certification. The Inn practices several activities to improve the quality of the environment including the use of lighting timers to reduce energy waste, the installation of low-flow faucets and showerheads and a strict adherence to a paper and aluminum recycling program. Among other initiatives, the inn hopes to continue their green efforts by installing a drip irrigation system, Energy Star certified appliances and introducing a new glass and plastic recycling program. Located across the street from the Steinhatchee River, guests are sure to enjoy the scenery while remaining confident in its preservation. (352) 498-4049.Gainesville: The Mary Ann Harn Cofrin Pavilion at The Harn Museum of Art is one of only fourteen buildings in the state to receive the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification. The Cofrin Pavilion houses the museum's contemporary art collection and was built to reduce natural resource waste and provide a safe and comfortable establishment for visitors. (352) 392-9826.Clearwater Beach: The Sandpearl Resort has achieved one of its greatest goals by doing its part in conservation. The resort is designed to meet LEED requirements. Upon completion in summer 2007, the LEED-certified resort will be one of many buildings around the nation devoted to saving the environment. The Sandpearl will have several benefits for the environment and its visitors, including energy efficient appliances and improved air and water quality. These requirements will help beautify Clearwater Beach, preserving it for future generations. (727) 441-2425.St. Petersburg: St. Petersburg is Florida's first "Green City," as designated by the Florida Green Building Coalition in May 2007. The city earned this title by pursuing programs to improve the environment. Initiatives include the use of bio-diesel fuel and hybrid city vehicles and the creation of one of the largest reclaimed water systems in the country. (727) 893-7111.St. Pete Beach: Joining the ranks of its sister resort, The Island Grand, The TradeWinds Sandpiper Suites recently received FGLP Certification. The resort maintains a paper, aluminum and cardboard recycling program, participates in a water conservation program, and uses appliances that are Energy Star certified. TradeWinds has also become the state's first resort to adjust its beach front lighting to be sea turtle-friendly. The resort recently created a special package for environmentally-conscience guests dubbed "It's Easy Being Green." The package includes a three-night stay at either facility, two tickets to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a dolphin watch or sunset sailing cruise, one-day beach trolley pass for two and two take-home souvenirs --- a double travel hammock and a special sea turtle adoption certificate from the Clearwater Aquarium. (866) 587-8538.Orlando: Jungle Adventures, Inc. educates visitors on Florida's history, ecology and biology. In doing so, the organization hopes to sustain a clean environment for everyone to enjoy. Among other initiatives, Jungle Adventures, Inc. refrains from using pesticides, does not landscape and uses an electric motor for their guided boat tours. (407) 568-1354.Gulfport (near Sarasota): Kayak Nature Adventure's "Bring Back the Bayou" program provides visitors a chance to help clean up the environment while kayaking for free. In exchange for one bag of garbage, visitors are able to spend an afternoon on the water at no charge. The program has been incredibly successful, removing 10,700 pounds of garbage from the bayou in the last 11 weeks. (727) 418-9728.Punta Gorda: Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is certified as the second Clean Marina in Charlotte County. Under this DEP certification, FishermenÍs Village has committed itself to keeping Florida's waterways clean. The marina has formulated environmental emergency plans and introduced a waste removal system for watercraft, making it easier to encourage ecological mindfulness among boaters. Visitors to Fisherman's Village will also enjoy the great shopping and restaurants. (941) 575-3000.Bonita Springs: The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa recently celebrated its one-year anniversary of FGLP Certification. The anniversary also marks the resort's designation as a Two Palm Certified facility. As the first resort in Florida to receive the One Palm designation, the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point has continued its efforts to keep Florida clean. Since first becoming certified, the facility has made drastic changes to encourage clean and economical practices. Statistics show that the hotel has reduced water consumption by 28 percent, energy usage by 1.8 percent and waste disposal by 2.8 percent. As a leader in the fight for the environment the resort also provides a great tropical getaway for its visitors. (239) 444-1234.Marco Island (near Naples): The Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort has placed sea turtle safety as a top priority. Regular inspections of the beach are conducted and the resort is outfitted with "turtle friendly" lights and blackout drapes in guest rooms. The resort encourages visitors to remain aware of their impact on the fragile environment by placing sea turtle awareness brochures in guest rooms. (239) 642-2613.Boynton Beach (near West Palm Beach): The Florida Festivals and Events Association, a small non-profit organization for Florida's event producers, has shifted their registration process from paper to strictly computer-based. All seminars, memberships and registrations are now done online. In addition, all newsletters, credit transactions, receipts and surveys are also distributed by computer, cutting back on time and paper waste. (561) 736-7071.Fort Lauderdale: The Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa has introduced policies to help the surrounding wildlife feel as comfortable as their guests. The resort has created regulations to keep the beaches safe for loggerhead sea turtles. Initiatives during sea turtle season include regulated inspections of the beach for new nests, firework and bonfire restriction and the use of "turtle friendly" lights. (954) 525-4000.Miami: Management of Parrot Jungle Island maintains the park's beauty without the help of pesticides. Park visitors can be confident that the park's foliage has been grown and maintained in a chemical-free environment. The facility is also quickly becoming world-renown for their Integrated Pest Management and Plant Health Care programs. (305) 400-7000.Coral Gables (near Miami) : Dragonfly Expeditions, Inc.'s "green" philosophy and eco-friendly options make travel fun for the explorer and safe for the environment. Adventure mixes with ecological education and culture as groups explore areas filled with wildlife and mingle with locals. Dragonfly Expeditions, Inc. supports the fragile nature of earth's ecosystem by continuing efforts like water bottle recycling, trash clean-up during tours, and continuous donations towards local preservation efforts. Created in 1996, the company provides families and small groups several different travel packages including day and overnight excursions. (888) 992-6337.
And ECOTRAVEL on the Florida Keys.)
Dept. of Sociology - McGuinn Hall
Boston College, Chestnut Hill MA 02467-3807
Fax: 617-552-4283
Telephone: 617-552-3346
E-Mail: GOODMONEY1@aol.com
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