February 7, 2011 – The Henry –an Autograph Collection Hotel, located in Dearborn, has earned Green Lodging Michigan (GLM) Leader certification from the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth (DELEG).
Green Lodging Michigan encourages hotels, resorts, motels, and bed & breakfast facilities to implement environmental initiatives and cost-saving “green” practices to conserve energy, reduce water consumption, protect air quality, reduce waste, and participate in environmentally preferred purchasing.
“Hoteliers across the state who are committed to green business practices are earning this accreditation as the mark of environmental responsibility,” said DELEG Acting Director Andrew S. Levin. “Green Lodging Michigan is an investment in the viability of our lodging facilities and the thousands of jobs related to Michigan’s hospitality industry.”
The Henry has implemented several environmental initiatives at their facility. They have a linen and towel reuse program as well as low flow fixtures to conserve water. They reduce waste by recycling materials such as: paper, aluminum, cardboard, plastic, and others. Energy Star lighting has been installed throughout the hotel, including compact fluorescent bulbs in chandeliers and wall sconces, and energy efficient LG flat screen televisions. The Henry also utilizes a waterside economizer to take advantage of free cooling during favorable weather conditions. In addition, the hotel recently had an energy audit to help identify other energy conservation options.
“The Henry is committed to protecting our environment and making a positive impact on Michigan’s natural resources,” said Bill Quiseng, general manager of The Henry. “In our daily efforts to reduce energy and recycle and reduce solid waste, our associates carry forward to our guests and our community the important message of environmental protection. We are so proud to be recognized as a Michigan Green Lodging-certified hotel.”
Green Lodging Michigan is a joint effort between DELEG and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE) to encourage the lodging industry to conserve and protect the state’s natural resources while increasing marketability and lowering utility costs.
“Green Lodging Michigan has been an effective way of including hoteliers in the effort to help Michigan continue as the leader in environmental beauty and abundant natural resources,” said Rebecca A. Humphries, director, Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE).
Green Lodging Michigan is a voluntary and non-regulatory certification program offered through the Bureau of Energy Systems in DELEG to hoteliers at no charge. The Bureau of Energy Systems and the DNRE provide technical assistance to those who are interested in implementing “green” strategies and earning certification. The GLM program certifies facilities based on environmental initiatives such as air quality, energy efficiency, solid waste reduction, toxic waste management, water conservation, purchasing and communication. There are three levels of certification: Partner, Steward, and Leader, which can be earned by completing a self-assessment checklist and achieving a minimum number of requirements and points.
The Bureau of Energy Systems promotes energy efficiency and renewable energy resource development to Michigan’s residents, businesses, and public institutions. For more information about the Green Lodging Michigan program and to download the GLM application packet and self-assessment checklist, visit the website atwww.michigan.gov/greenlodging.
Click here to be introduced to DELEG.
Source: Michigan Dept. of Energy, Labor, & Economic Growth (DELEG)