Travel Tips & Trends

Florida

Florida offers "green" hotels

More and more travelers consider how environmentally friendly a hotel is when planning their vacation.

Environmental impact is often hard to assess and is not included in most hotel rating systems as yet. However, in 2004, the state of Florida initiated the Green Lodging Program, with the intent of recognizing environmentally conscientious properties in the state. Nearly 200 Florida properties now have ratings under this system, ranging from bed-and-breakfasts to luxury resorts.

The program is voluntary and covers a list of environmental initiatives such as reducing water use, conserving energy, improving air quality and decreasing solid waste. There are three designated levels of achievement, represented by palm tree symbols. One palm indicates that a hotel has completed the core activities representing a minimum set of best environmental management practices. To achieve two palms, a property must have held one-palm status for at least a year, have conducted a baseline environmental assessment and demonstrated a reduction in energy, water consumption and waste disposal. Currently, only four properties in Florida hold a two-palm designation, and none have yet attained three-palm status. The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs was the first Florida hotel to attain two palms.