Tahoe's Green Hotel

1. Sustainable Sites

Covered under Sustainable Sites is the building exterior, pest management, reduced land disturbance, storm water management, heat island reduction, alternative commuting and light pollution. Some of the specific efforts pertaining to Sustainable sites made at 968 Park Hotel are as follows:

• Modest exterior metal siding, designed to be easily removable for maintenance
• Extensive erosion control adhering to the BMP standard set forth by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA)
• Hypo Allergenic mattresses that are Cimicidae proof and never requiring the use of chemicals for elimination
• Native vegetation planted to create natural shade and the reduction of heat islands
• The hotel’s location lends itself for reduced demands for automobile transportation. Within walking distance is the Heavenly Gondola www.skiheavenly.com , Harrah’s Casino, Harvey’s Casino, Montbleu Casino and Horizon Casino, Lake Tahoe, South Lake Tahoe Express Airport shuttle bus stop, and a Blue Go bus stop
• Minimal use of exterior lighting to reduce light pollution

2. Water Efficiency

Covered under water efficiency is indoor plumbing and water efficient landscaping. Some of the specific efforts made by 968 Park Hotel to contribute to water efficiency are as follows:

• Toilets are dual-flush
• Faucets and showers are low flow with aerators
• Detergents and soaps are biodegradable and/or organic
• Guests have cards in their rooms explaining that their sheets and towels will only be changed upon request
• Planting is comprised of all native species found in the High Sierra Environment requiring only a drip system. Grass has not been planted, eliminating the need for an outdoor sprinkler system

3. Energy & Atmosphere

Addressed in Energy & Atmosphere is the usage and operation of energy efficient equipment and the reduction of greenhouse gasses. Some of the specific efforts made by 968 Park Hotel to contribute to Energy and Atmosphere are as follows:

• Energy efficient, compact florescent light bulbs
• Motion detection switches for lighting
• Automated photocell switches for lighting
• Energy efficient dish washer
• Energy efficient refrigerators
• Fans, blinds and opening windows for ventilation and cooling in place of air conditioning, eliminating the need for refrigerants that may contribute to ozone depletion
• ecosmart zero emission fireplaces for supplemental heating
• Completion of capital projects to ensure energy-using systems are repaired and maintained effectively to optimize energy performance
• Dual pane energy efficient windows

4. Materials & Resources

This section addresses the environmental impacts of materials and foods acquired as it relates to resources, toxins, disposal, and region from which it was obtained.

Materials and products obtained for capital projects are made from recycled, sustainable and natural materials. Examples include:

• Walls and structural elements are built from reclaimed, aged Douglas Fir lumber and finished with natural patinas
• Insulation is made from recycled blue jeans
• Trim and baseboards are made from recycled wood
• Carpet is made from sustainable materials
• ECOtrend Collagen Natural Interior Zero VOC Paints
• Guest room furniture made from American Recycled Timber
• A local caterer is contracted to provide organic pastries for the morning snacks
• Local carpenters, electricians, and plumbers used for capital projects
• Lobby furniture made from material recycled from the old pool fence
• Business cards and promotional material printed on recycled paper
• Guest room amenities are organic
• Linens are natural and free of dye and bleach
• Cleaning products are natural and free of harmful chemicals
• Mattress are EPA approved
• Pillows are hypo-allergenic
• Trash cans are made from 100% recycled material
• Fencing is made form recycled wood
• Spa deck is constructed of recycled plastic boards
• Spa uses a saline treatment system
• Headboards, vanity, and bedside tables are constructed of recycled wood
• Front desk is constructed of recycled wood
• Solid waste is separated by South Lake Tahoe Refuse where 37% of all waste is recycled
• Materials not usable on the property are donated or used at other projects
• Local suppliers are used to provide goods

5. Indoor Environmental Quality

This section addresses the air quality within the building as it pertains to the health of the occupants.

• Co2 monitoring systems in place
• Zero VOC paints used
• Non-toxic clean agents used
• Windows open for natural ventilation
• Fans installed in every room
• Smoking is prohibited within building
• Smoking Areas are designated 25 feet from building
• Use of occupant controlled lighting
• Daylight views throughout public spaces and guest rooms

6. Innovation in Operation

This section under the LEED certification offers additional points for innovative ideas not necessarily covered in the previous categories.

• Use of compliance consultants
• Documentation of costs associated with LEED compliance
• Reusable items such as dishes and cutlery
• Purchase of used goods and antiques