Photo Credit: VISIT FLORIDA

Eco-conscious travelers to Florida will have more green hotel options this fall/winter.

Eleven more lodging facilities have joined the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Green Lodging Program. They have implemented green practices that are protective of Florida’s natural resources.  To date, 579 lodging facilities in Florida are now designated in the state’s voluntary program.

Says DEP Director of Sustainable Initiatives Deas Bohn:

“Lodging facilities are recognizing the value in green just in time for fall visitors and the upcoming holiday travel season. By adopting practices that protect Florida’s environment without sacrificing the comforts of their guests, these 11 facilities are setting a great example of environmental stewardship for Floridians and visitors alike.”

The new designations statewide are:

Northwest
• Courtyard by Marriott, Panama City
• Ramada Hotel and Conference Center, Tallahassee
• Residence Inn Tallahassee Universities at the Capitol, Tallahassee

Northeast
• Courtyard by Marriott – Kendall Town, Jacksonville
• Park Place, Cedar Key

Central
• Country Inn and Suites, Cape Canaveral
• Hyatt Place, Lake Mary
• Nickelodeon Family Suites, Orlando

Southeast
• Holiday Inn Fort Lauderdale Airport, Fort Lauderdale
• Wyndham Garden Hotel, Boca Raton

South
• Holiday Inn Express, Bonita Springs

The Florida Green Lodging Program, launched in 2004, establishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution.  Designated members must adopt green practices to conserve energy, reduce water consumption, protect air quality and reduce waste.

For more information, visit the Florida Green Lodging Program online.