November 19, 2007 - The Lansing Quality Suites Hotel has earned Green Lodging Michigan (GLM) Steward certification from the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth (DLEG).

Green Lodging Michigan (GLM) 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.

"This accreditation is the mark of environmental responsibility of hoteliers who are committed to 'green' business practices that make environmental and economic goals their top priority," said DLEG Director Keith W. Cooley.  "GLM is also helping to ensure the viability of our lodging facilities and the thousands of related hospitality jobs that stay in Michigan." 

The Lansing Quality Suites Hotel has implemented several environmental initiatives at the facility such as offering a towel and linen reuse program to guests, using low VOC (volatile organic compounds that can be toxic and/or flammable) cleaning products and paints, and specifying that future equipment purchases be Energy Star qualified.  In addition, the hotel recently underwent an energy audit and management is evaluating future energy conservation projects.

"We felt that it was very important to do our part and push for better environmental practices.  Occupancy sensors, Energy Star equipment, and a comprehensive recycling program are among our 'green' policies," said Mike Rice, general manager of the Quality Suites Hotel.  "We are proud to represent and support Lansing's efforts and Michigan's hotel industry on this important initiative."

GLM is a joint effort between DLEG and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to encourage the lodging industry to conserve and protect the state's natural resources while increasing marketability and lowering utility costs.

"This program has given Michigan's hotels and resorts the opportunity to play a valuable role in our efforts to protect and preserve Michigan's environment," said Steven E. Chester, director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

GLM is a voluntary and non-regulatory certification program offered through the Michigan Energy Office in DLEG to hoteliers at no charge. The Michigan Energy Office and the DEQ 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 Michigan Energy Office 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 at www.michigan.gov/greenlodging.

Read more Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth press releases.