MEDIA CONTACT:
Danielle Zimmerman, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
Email: dzimmerman@TravelWisconsin.com
For an interactive version: http://pitch.pe/182286.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Six New Tourism Businesses Are Travel Green Wisconsin Certified
MADISON, Wis. (Oct. 21, 2011) — Wisconsin tourism businesses are adapting innovative policies and practices to become Travel Green Wisconsin certified. From recycling bikes to eco-friendly housekeeping, these businesses are great examples of tourism destinations embracing Wisconsin’s green travel initiatives.
Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett announced the certification of six new businesses through Travel Green Wisconsin. These businesses join a long list of travel and hospitality properties located throughout Wisconsin that have made a commitment to continuously improving their operations to reduce their environmental impact and offer sustainable travel options to our guests.
“I am pleased to see six tourism businesses join the growing list of Travel Green Wisconsin certified businesses,” said Secretary Klett. “They represent a wide scope of the state’s tourism industry, big and small businesses, lodging properties to attractions and retail. However, they all have one thing in common: their commitment to sustainability and reducing their environmental footprint.”
The list of six recently certified businesses follows with a highlight of green initiatives from their application. Their full list of green initiatives can be found at www.TravelWisconsin.com.
• Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee — Awarded the GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certification for Cleaners and Cleaning Maintenance Systems by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute. The Harley-Davidson Museum was the first museum to gain this certification.
Contact: Joyce Koker — (414) 287-2733, joyce.koker@harley-davidson.com
• Cedar Beach Inn, Baileys Harbor — Purchase used bikes and lawn chairs at garage sales while recycling ones that are no longer safe; educate guests on sustainability.
Contact: Mary Spangler — (920) 559-1877, marysbeachhouse@gmail.com
• Courtyard by Marriott-Madison West, Middleton — Has an eco-friendly housekeeping service and an in-room recycling service.
Contact: Sabine Kemp — (608) 203-0100, skemp@ncghotels.com
• Essentials Schools Outdoor School LLC, Viroqua — Teaches “Leave No Trace” protocol to all Wilderness Trip clients and encourages clients to reduce waste by limiting disposable products.
Contact: William Humphrey — (608) 606-9004, bill@essentialskills.org
• Glas, Sturgeon Bay — The green roof of the coffee shop Glas filters rain water and creates a cooling effect for the building. Glas also features organic coffee, milk, tea, fruit and vegetables.
Contact: Angela Jonas — (920) 743-5575, angela@glascoffee.com
• Peninsula Park View, Fish Creek — This resort grows their own vegetables and herbs for guests and support Energy Star rated materials.
Contact: Carole — (920) 854-2633, carolevw@yahoo.com
Travel Green Wisconsin is the first of its kind in the nation and has served as a model to promote environmentally-friendly practices in the tourism industry. The program is unique for its inclusion of all tourism-related businesses and organizations including but not limited to attractions, events, accommodations, outfitters, restaurants, retail, visitor centers and more. Tourism businesses interested in learning more about becoming certified can contact Travel Green Wisconsin Manager Shelly Allness at mallness@TravelWisconsin.com or 608-261-8767.
The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the state as the Midwest’s premier travel destination by executing industry leading marketing programs and establishing strategic partnerships. The Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact and jobs for Wisconsin. Additional traveler information can be found at: www.TravelWisconsin.com
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