Marriott Vacation Club Resorts in Hawaii Receive Advanced Certifications in Green Lodging

This week, four Marriott Vacation Club resorts in Hawaii reached a new milestone in green lodging. Audubon International, a distinguished environmental education organization, provided the four of the Marriott Vacation Club (MVC) resorts with their most advanced certification levels.

Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club and Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club received the prestigious Platinum Certification, making them two of the greenest resorts in Hawaii. In addition, Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club and Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons–Kalanipu’u advanced to Gold Certification.

The resorts received these certifications from their energy efficiency and sustainability practices. One way the properties are conserving energy is by using all Energy Star appliances. The resorts all use energy efficient lighting and window coverings that reduce solar heat gain, reducing energy consumption from air conditioners. The Maui Ocean Club and Ko Olina Beach Club have also installed heating and cooling monitors to reduce energy use in unoccupied rooms.

Another notable act is recycling. Although it is such a simple task, it can make a world of difference when practiced on such a large scale.

COO at Audubon International Fred Realbuto said, “It is clear that the Marriott Vacation Club properties in Hawaii take the responsibility of protecting the natural environment very seriously. For instance, each of the properties employs its own landscaping staff. As one walks the grounds of these properties, it becomes abundantly clear that there is pride of ownership in the selection and placement of each plant and tree.”

These resorts are the first properties in Hawaii to receive these certifications and among only 63 resorts in the world to be recognized by Audubon International.

Audubon’s approval process is broken down into categories including: Indoor Air Quality, Energy Efficiency, Air Quality, Waste Reduction, Waste Reuse, Recycling, and Communication and Education. Audubon visits each eligible resort to inspect the property and provide a rating in each category.

VP of corporate affairs and communications, Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation, Ed Kinney commented, “We are very proud of these environmental achievements and recognition by Audubon International at our resorts in Hawaii. For more than 30 years, our Marriott Vacation Club resorts and associates have demonstrated a passionate commitment to the environment. We are constantly seeking new opportunities that support our green initiatives worldwide and value our ongoing relationship with Audubon International.”

About Audubon International

Audubon International is a not-for-profit 5019(c)(3) organization that promotes environmental education. The organization provides training, services, and award-wining education programs to help businesses and communities protect the environment.
For more information, visit AudubonInternational.org.