Wingate by Wyndham - Tampa (at Fowler Ave. and McKinley) Receives Florida Green Lodging Program Designation

Tampa, FL, September 25, 2009 --(PR.com)-- The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) welcomes the Wingate by Wyndham Tampa (at Fowler Ave. and McKinley) to the Florida Green Lodging Program. The 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.

“Wingate by Wyndham Tampa is proud to receive this Green Lodging Certification. Investing more than a half million dollars in renovations at the hotel, we now offer all new, environmentally responsible bathroom facilities, recycling procedures and more energy efficient systems. I am privileged to represent a hotel that has gone the extra mile to guarantee eco-friendly hospitality.” explains General Manager, Manual Aguiar.

To become a designated 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 like toilettes and shower heads, a linen reuse program, and energy efficiency achieved by installing censored light switches and programmable thermostats. The waste reduction criteria are met by providing the opportunity to recycle, purchasing items in bulk, obtaining recycled materials and by recycling ink and toner cartridges. All designated properties must also use green cleaners, like Nano Power Finish®, and high efficiency air filters.

“ In addition to in-hotel conservation and green products, our centralized location and guest shuttle van serve to minimize the need for additional fuel consumption by our guests and staff,” comments Linda Beebee, Director of Sales.

Launched in March 2004, the Florida Green Lodging Program establishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels 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.

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.

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