The Environmental Stewardship & Management Initiative was launched by Audubon International to help foster environmental stewardship and improve resource management by a wide range of people.
Around the Green Leaf in Thirty Days
I recently had the opportunity to do a whirlwind tour of 17 resort destinations on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina and the entire state of Florida, all in less than thirty days. This trip was made necessary by the recent commitment of Marriott Vacation Club to enroll all of their properties in North America in the Audubon Green Leaf Eco-Rating Program.
Travelling exclusively to properties under one brand gave me a very unique perspective. These comprised over 4,600 villas in two states—South Carolina and Florida. There were aspects that were distinctly similar at each of the properties, such as the level of amenities and the management expertise of Marriott, and yet each was also distinctively unique. While there was an undeniable unity to the brand, there was also a palpable pride exhibited by the owners, guests, and associates at each individual property. Since there are eight Marriott Vacation Club resorts located within close proximity to each other on Hilton Head Island, this pride and good natured competitiveness was discernable.
I believe there are several positive outcomes of this healthy competitiveness. The associates at each property are constantly driven to explore innovative alternatives to the environmental status quo while providing the highest level of guest service. Consequently, the bar is always being raised!
The multitude of innovations and practices that I was exposed to on this trip amazed me. Program members are using “smart” thermostats that recognize when exterior doors and windows are left open that automatically shut down air conditioning. The jury is still out about how practical these devices are, but that is what experimentation is for. Another innovation I witnessed was a complete Energy Management Systems (EMS) used at resorts to optimize energy usage, reduce consumption, and increase reliability. So far the systems are garnering great reviews.
↑ From the mundane to the sublime: Recycling receptacles are the norm in all common areas; Waterless urinals help reduce water consumption; Guests can enjoy meals on bowls and plates made from 100% biodegradable peat; The “Solar Express,” a solar-powered transports guests at Marriott’s Royal, Sabal, and Imperial Palms Villas.
At every property I visited, recycling was common practice. Re-use was also implemented at these resorts by way of re-upholstering, re-surfacing, and the donation of existing furniture. Almost no furniture phased out during recent refurbishments found its way to a landfill. When considering the potential implications of that times 4,600 villas, you realize the significance of the steps Marriott is taking to preserve the environment. More and more, recycling receptacles are strategically placed where they are most likely to be used and not just where it’s convenient to put them. Guests and associates can now easily recycle in the lobbies and hallways as well as traditional recycling centers.
I’ve observed a diverse array of conservation efforts and activities during these trips and throughout my travels for the Green Leave Eco-rating program. I’ve seen programs for water conservation through the use of tap aerators and low flush toilets, motion sensitive taps, “gray” water for irrigation, and dual flush toilets. I’ve seen numerous energy saving activities including programmable thermostats, smart thermostats, energy management systems, CFL and LED lighting motion and heat sensitive switches, and much more. I’ve also seen recycling measures too numerous to itemize. Are all these measures in place and at all facilities? No, but that is the goal and small steps in the right direction can make a big difference. Marriott Vacation Club should be proud of their efforts so far and we are excited about their commitment to attain a four Green Leaf rating at each property. We are pleased to have them work with us to better protect and sustain our land, water, wildlife, and other natural resources.
So, how do you get there? I don’t believe that this is a goal that you arrive at but rather a road that you travel that brings you closer and closer to a place you want to be. I further believe that communication is a great vehicle to take you down that road.
Communication between corporate, upper management, support staff, and direct line staff that defines the environmental philosophy and goals of the organization is essential to realization. Communication between the facility and its guests is also important. Tell your guests what you are doing! More and more guests are demanding greener, more sustainable practices in their accommodations. They are also willing to participate in helping achieve your goals. How effective you are in communicating your philosophy, environmental practices, goals, and suggestions for guest involvement can make a huge difference in the pursuit and attainment of your goals as well as improvement of your bottom line. Signage, guest books, in-house television channels and orientations are all effective mediums for conveying your environmental message. Make sure to also communicate with Audubon International. The more information we are able to share, the better we can assist you in addressing your challenges and telling your environmental story.
By Fred Realbuto, Director of New York Operations, Audubon International
