The growing green lodging trend

TALLAHASSEE, FL — A total of 395 properties statewide have been designated as green by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Green Lodging program, according to the Miami Herald.


Many hospitality employees have noticed an increase in the number of guests inquiring about their property's environmentally friendly policies before making reservations, the story stated.


Nikki Grossman, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitor's Bureau, said: "We have noticed more meeting groups and even some leisure travelers are weighing in on their concern for our environment. Green lodging is a big trend in the industry, no question about it."


According to the story, the rush for the Green Lodging program's seal of approval started in mid-2007 when Governor Charlie Crist signed an executive order mandating that all state-sponsored meetings and conferences be held in Florida Department of Environmental Protection-certified green facilities whenever possible.


Many of the hotels meeting the criteria utilize energy efficient lighting and low-flow toilets, shower heads and faucets and have on-site recycling programs, the story noted.


There are currently 80 more lodging properties slated to receive Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Green Lodging program certification, the story added.