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Two Key West Resorts Get Florida 'Green Lodging' Approval

Earlier this month, two Key West properties became the first resorts in the Keys to receive certification from Florida's Green Lodging program. Banyan Resort and the Gardens Hotel, both in the Old Town section of Key West, each earned "one palm" designations for initiatives ranging from recycling and linen reuse programs.

The Sunshine State instituted its Green Lodging program in March 2004. The program currently has 30 certified properties, including the two Key West ones, and more than 60 more have applied and are awaiting approval. The program is voluntary. However, starting January 1, 2008, Florida state agencies will only be allowed to hold meetings and conferences at Green Lodging properties. That sounds like a Category 5 incentive to us.

If a "one palm" Green Lodging property maintains that status for 12 months, they will be eligible for "two palm" designation. Properties in good Green Lodging standing for three years get "three palm" designation.

Here's a summary of the Banyan Resort's green initiatives, hot off a recent press release:

Environmentally friendly aspects of the Banyan Resort, a 38-suite property at 323 Whitehead St., include a towel and linen reuse program, a recycling program, energy conservation through solar roof panels for pool heating and high-efficiency compact fluorescent lighting, and purchasing products with recycled content such as plastic lumber used for courtyard decking.

And the Gardens,' from the same release:

The Gardens Hotel, an 18-room property at 526 Angela St., has implemented an environmental policy to communicate green living to guests as well as elements including low-flow faucets to conserve water and energy, a linen and towel reuse program, an automatic door closer and energy-efficient garden pump, a recycling program and purchasing products with recycled content and reduced packaging. In addition, four electric cars were purchased for staff errands around Key West.

Props to Florida, and other states, like California, for instituting green practices. For a listing of all certified and pending Florida Green Lodging properties, click here. As you'll see, some of Florida's best-known properties are getting in the green act.

[Photo: Diva Bex]

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