iStayGreen has tremendous growth opportunities within the environmental online hospitality industry. To take advantage of these opportunities iStayGreen has recruited BIZ-NET Brokers, Inc. to locate a capital partner, joint venture investment or represent their website for sale. Environmental initiatives are really taking root in the hospitality business and iStayGreen is strategically positioned to take advantage of the growth opportunities while enhancing the eco-value to their users. Interested parties should contact the Internet Business for Sale division of BIZ-NET to learn more about this and other investments.

Surrounded by a dramatic panorama of mountains and ocean, Vancouver draws nature buffs and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. In fact, not only the city becoming known internationally as an environmental leader, but Mayor Gregor Robertson has pledged that Vancouver will be the greenest city in the world by 2020. They’re already making a strong start: Vancouver is already Canada’s greenest city and an industry-recognized frontrunner in green building, planning and technology. Drawing 90 percent of its power from renewable sources, Vancouver is a leader in hydroelectric power and is now charting a course to use wind, solar, wave and tidal energy to significantly reduce fossil-fuel use. Perhaps most importantly, residents can freely enjoy the city’s sprawling green space with 200 parks and more than 18 miles of waterfront. On their way to world eco-domination, they’ve reached significant milestones and created environmentally friendly alternatives for nearly every facet of residents’ lifestyles.

Greeted with Green: Sustainability at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) 

Visitors to Vancouver experience the city’s eco-initiatives right on arrival. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) features a number of green building techniques, including solar-powered hot water heating systems that have resulted in energy savings of $110,000 per year. The airport’s Energy Reduction Committee implements further energy-reducing initiatives, such as econo-mode settings on baggage conveyor belts and carbon dioxide sensors to control heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Since it was created in 1999, the committee has saved more than 24 gigawatt hours of electricity. YVR was Canada’s first airport to install a living wall, standing 18 meters high and home to more than 28,000 plants.  Finally, in 2004 the airport introduced a Taxi Incentive Program that licensed 100 hybrid and natural gas-operated taxis to pick up arriving passengers. Since its inception, the program has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 8,422 tonnes every year.

 Stay Green: Green Eco-Leaf Rated Hoteliers

A host of Vancouver hotels have been recognized by iStayGreen’s Green Eco-Leaf Rating  Program and also the Hotel Asscoiation of Canada’s Green Key Rating Program as exemplifying environmental stewardship. Only a few dozen hotels around the world have achieved the top-level Five Green Keys rating, with Vancouver’s contribution including the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver, Hyatt Regency Vancouver and The Fairmont Waterfront. In addition, 22 local hotels have been awarded Four Green Keys.

 Eat Green: Ocean Wise and Beyond

Stanley Park’s Vancouver Aquarium

Seafood is a local dining specialty, but not all aquatic dishes are created equally. Pioneered by Stanley Park’s Vancouver Aquarium and innovative chefs across the region, the Ocean Wise initiative supports sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that restaurant seafood has been raised, sourced and supplied in an environmentally sound manner. In addition, many Vancouver restaurants promote the use of fresh, local and seasonal ingredients; in fact, Raincity Grill pioneered the popular 100-Mile Menu movement.

Go Green: Transportation

Vancouver’s commitment to green transportation is exemplified by its growing mass transit system. The original SkyTrain rail line opened in 1985 and, in 2009 – just in time for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games – the Canada Line was added, linking the airport to downtown in a 25-minute trip. The next stage of this eco-minded transit network is the Evergreen Line, scheduled to open in 2016. Alternative modes of eco-transport include one of the world’s largest hybrid taxi fleets, newly expanded bike lanes and an easily walkable downtown core. Car drivers aren’t exempt: the city now requires electric vehicle charging stations for 20 percent of all parking stalls in new condo buildings.

 Learn Green: Eco-Events

Vancouver’s green initiatives extend to community participation, with several events aiming to inspire green discussion and encourage change. Two of the largest include the Projecting Change Film Festival (featuring films that promote discussion about social and environmental issues, with each production followed by a dynamic speaker and panel discussion); and the Ep!c Sustainable Living Expo (Western Canada’s largest lifestyle show for the eco-conscious consumer).

Build Green: Vancouver Architecture

Vancouver boasts an abundance of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified buildings – among the highest number per capita in North America. The city is also a leader in the area of policies aimed at promoting energy efficiency in buildings. In 2008, Vancouver set a goal of making all new construction carbon neutral by 2030. As part of this goal, the Green Homes program requires that all new building permit applications for single-family homes meet a specific set of requirements, which will reduce energy consumption by 33 percent. In 2010, Vancouver required all newly rezoned buildings to meet LEED gold standard, the highest green building standard for rezoned buildings in North America. Notable green architecture includes the Olympic and Paralympic Village (certified the most energy efficient neighborhood in the world); the Vancouver Convention Centre (the first in the world to achieve LEED platinum certification) and Grouse Mountain’s Eye of the Wind, the world’s largest commercial wind turbine.

Shop Green: Vancouver’s Green Stores and Brands

Mountain Equipment Co-Op

Vancouver is home to a number of boutiques, grocers and other retailers and designers that produce and sell environmentally friendly wares. A sampling of well-known labels include Ethical Bean (sourcing only fair trade and organic coffee beans, the café was inspired by the owners’ interactions with Guatemalan coffee farmers); Happy Planet (the juice empire connects urban residents with organic farming techniques); John Fluevog (catering to celebrities, locals and visitors, designers produce and sell stylish shoes made of eco-friendly materials); and Mountain Equipment Co-op (designed to last, the company’s active wear is made from organically grown and recycled materials).

 Greenpeace: Made in Vancouver
Greenpeace is known across the globe for exposing environmental problems and brainstorming solutions to ensure a green future – and it was founded in Vancouver. Forty-one years after it began, Greenpeace now operates in more than 40 countries worldwide and has 2.9 million members. Among its many initiatives, the organization has continued its initial aims to protect biodiversity, prevent pollution, end nuclear threats and promote peace, and has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize.

Vancouver is an incredibly beautiful city with a very credible drive to become the Greenest City in the World by 2020

How would you like to have your toilet being the focal piece of furniture in your floor to ceiling glass windowed, luxury cliff-hanger home?

(check out the video above) . . .

No more cold butts . . . no more cold feet . . . left your ipod in the living room – not to worry . . . the Numi, Kohler’s new remote controlled, dare we even call it a toilet, has all your bases covered . . . and it’s eco-friendly to boot!

The new design uses 20% less water than your typical 1.6 gallon toilet and the WaterSense technology insures excellent flushing performance. While water conservation was certainly one of the design goals, Kohler has gone over the top with luxury features including the price of over $6,000 USD. Here’s the short list of what you’ll get for the hefty price tag:

• heated seat
• bidet
• built-in deodorizer
• integrated air dryer
• extra ambiance with illuminated panels
• motion-activated lid and seat
• FM radio / MP3 player
• remote audio docking station
• floor-level foot-warming system
• touch-screen to utilize toilet’s features

At a $6,000+ price point I don’t think I’ll be replacing the toilets in my home any time soon. Nor do I expect to see the Numi in most hotels, but the new Kohler commode might show up in a few eco-conscious luxury hotels.

The most populous city in Australia is eager to become a world leader in environmental action. Sydney,  Australia has created a city program, “Sustainable Sydney 2030,” that aims to improve living, improve the environment, build a thriving economy, support art and culture, and get people connected within the community and the world. It has big goals and too many to name, but the strong commitment from city leaders and community members has made the 2030 program into a success only five years over. Here are some of the ways Sydney’s 2030 program has already benefited the environment and looks to improve the city’s conditions well before the deadline.

Energy and emissions

One of the biggest priorities of Sustainable Sydney 2030 is reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. The city has set the ambitious goal of reducing its emissions by 70% from its levels in 2006. Its $18 million investment into this objective has put Sydney well on its way to reaching this goal, as it is set to halve its emissions by 2012. The installation of 1,200 solar parking meters has saved 1.4 tons of greenhouse gases per year, and energy-efficient LED street lights will improve energy efficiency by 50 percent. The city already has $12 million set aside for further investment in renewable energy for the next 5 years.

Electricity and infrastructure

At the start of the program, coal-powered electricity was responsible for 80% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions. To lower this figure, Sydney has implemented a trigeneration energy network so it can create low carbon electricity, heating, and cooling to buildings in the central business district. It has begun installing photovoltaic solar panels on City buildings as well as solar water heating, and it has formed the Sydney Better Buildings Partnership with its major landlords to reduce carbon emissions, energy and water use, and waste in 60% of the city’s commercial office space.

Waste

The population of Sydney creates 40,000 tons of waste each year. Thanks to the 2030 program, all of this waste is now collected and diverted into alternative waste treatment facilities for recycling, where up to 70% of it can be recycled or used for energy generation or high-grade compost. Renewable gases are also collected at these treatment facilities for further use in the city’s new energy systems.

Water conservation and reuse

The 2030 program seeks to reduce the city’s water use by 25% from 2006 levels and provide half of the water supply from a city-wide recycled water network. To date, 49 water harvesting and recycling systems have already been built, and enough water has been saved to fill 142 Olympic swimming pools. According to the city’s research, only 10% of the city’s water of drinking quality is drunk or used for cooking purposes. In light of this, the city moved to reduce other uses of this water supply and distribute from its water recycling network a water supply for non-drinking purposes such as toilets, air conditioning, irrigation, and other purposes.

Green spaces

To make Sydney a more attractive and enjoyable city, its program aims to increase its green space so that it has 24 square meters per resident. It also plans to increase its urban canopy by 50% and plant 20,000 new trees. There have been 30 rainwater tanks installed thus far to provide water for the city’s green spaces, and its plan to use raingardens should reduce pollutants by 50% in waterways while also introducing stormwater harvesting.

Transportation

Widespread public transportation is a major goal in Sydney, and its popularity happens to be growing while transit by car is lessening. Light rail and buses are becoming more widely used as well as car sharing and zero-emissions bicycling and walking. In fact, Sydney is making citywide efforts to encourage bicycling with its goal of 10% of all trips being made by bicycle by 2016.  Apparently it’s working, because the most recent year has shown transportation by bicycle to increase by up to 60% at peak travel hours. Bicycle routes are being upgraded and extended to connect major destinations and areas beyond the city.

Green, Global, and Connected

The city of Sydney set out with a mission and it has become a reality in change for environmental sustainability. There were several goals for this project: stabilizing emissions, reducing use and demands for energy, water, and wasteful resources, ensured energy security, and the ability to cope with rising sea levels and increased flooding. To make this happen, the city leaders began the program and got the community involved. Initial consultation involved more than 12,000 people, major community workshops, public exhibitions, and forums with indigenous communities. The city currently holds 50 public conversations per year and continues consultations with residents and business owners regarding any issues with the objectives. The program has found success because the whole city is not only involved, but they area also willing and motivated to make their city sustainable and successful.

Sydney, Australia is setting a worldwide example for sustainable innovations and environmental awareness. Its program has already found success in its vision to be “Green, Global, and Connected.” It has become green by lessening its impacts on the environment and increasing green spaces and vegetation. It has become global with its growing economy, global knowledge exchange, and its open-minded, global outlook and attitude. It has become connected by getting the people involved, creating a sense of belonging, well-being, and equality, and by making an accessible city that encourages communication between its government and its people. Sydney is at the forefront of sustainability efforts worldwide, and it makes a great place to visit during a lifetime.

Palm Springs, California lies on the western edge of the Coachella Valley, within the Colorado Desert. Located approximately 10 miles southeast of Los Angeles and 140 miles northeast of San Diego, it’s an easy two hour drive by freeway. The permanent year-round Palm Springs population is 45,000, and doubles during the winter season.

The history of Palm Springs is as varied as those who live here and come to visit. From the native Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians to the first pioneers to the early Hollywood stars to the mid-century modernist architects to celebrity mayor, Sonny Bono, to today’s path to sustainability, Palm Springs remains a historical and ecological wonder.

Discover the Natural Wonders of Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a paradise for those who want to explore the naturally stunning environment. The desert resort community is the gateway to state and national parks, and ancient canyons for hiking, rock climbing and off-road adventures.

Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon: National Register of Historic Places

Over 100 miles of hiking trails meander through rocky gorges, crystal clear streams and stunning waterfalls at the Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon, ancestral homes of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.  Fifteen miles long, Palm Canyon located in the Indian Canyons, is considered to be the world’s largest California Fan Palm Oasis and Tahquitz Canyon is famous for its stunning 60-foot seasonal waterfall.

Visitors can explore Cahuilla’s rock art, food preparation areas and house pits throughout the canyons. Go off the beaten path by taking a horseback riding tour of the Indian Canyons and panoramic views of the desert valley.

Mount San Jacinto State Park

From palms to pines, ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to experience a 10-minute breathtaking journey from 2,643 feet from the Valley Station to the Mountain Station at 8,516 feet to access the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Over 50 miles of hiking trails are available and are accessed by exiting the Tram’s Mountain Station.

The Gateway to Joshua Tree National Park

Drive 30-minutes outside of Palm Springs through thousands of wind turbines to arrive to Joshua Tree National Park, a playground of giant rock formations, backcountry trails, and wildlife. From easy to difficult trails, one can explore a stunning desert landscape by foot, mountain bike or horseback. Guided tours are also available.

Off-Road to San Andreas Fault

Several tour companies take visitors out on scenic excursions to learn about the geological wonders of the San Andreas Fault Zone, which is 30-minutes outside of Palm Springs. Maze through box and slot canyons, walk along the gurgling streams and witness unusual sandstone formations.

Staying Green

Over the past four years, Palm Springs has invested more than $200 million dollars into new hotels and property renovations, many of which have implemented green initiatives to help reduce overall daily energy consumption, as well as providing guests with an eco-friendly property.

The Path to Sustainability

In 2007, The City of Palm Springs proposed the first steps on the path to making the Palm Springs a sustainable community. Over the past years, the City has implemented important policies and continues to move towards the goal of reducing overall energy use and green house emissions. In 2011, the city launched and completed several programs in water conservation, urban suitability and mobility, waste reduction, energy efficiency and green resources for local businesses.

In 2012, the City’s Office of Sustainability is working on the following:

• Partnering with the Green Business Bureau to create a online certifying Green Business Program.
• Increase public education about water supply and and desert friendly landscaping programs.
• New trail signage at City trail access points and install community gardens.
• Host a Mayor’s race to Save the Planet in April to Celebrate Earth Day.
• Add more location for electronic water drop off and increase recycling center locations
• Offer rebates for energy-efficient gas appliances and introduce energy efficiency min-grants to low-income residents
• City facilities will undergo retrofits for lighting and systems controls

To learn more about the City’s Path to Sustainability, visit http://www.yoursustainablecity.com/

Green Meetings in Palm Springs

The Palm Springs Convention Center, a SMG-managed facility, is a pilot facility for SMG’s Green I.M.P.A.C.T., a new environmental corporate program designed to provide best practices in water conservation, energy efficiencies, waste diversion and air quality at its 225 facilities including 68 convention centers in North America.

As part of the I.M.P.A.C.T. program, an in-house “Green Team” has been formed to help build the guidelines and best practices in areas of energy reduction, resource management, water consumption, air quality, and food and beverage.

• Since 2005, the convention center has had an overall reduction in energy use of over 50%.
• A “Trash to Treasure” program has been developed for clients and vendors to repurpose and/or recycle non-traditional materials.
• In-house catering partner, Savoury’s, utilizes biodegradable products, locally grown food and donates excess food to local assistance programs.
• Since 2010, the center is a pilot facility for the City’s new composting program and has diverted 33.13 tons of food waste to a local processing plant which then returns the composting to fertilizer for local markets.

To learn more about visiting Palm Springs, California visit http://www.visitpalmsprings.com/

Another resource for Green happenings in Palm Springs is http://palmspringsgreenscene.com/

A special thanks to Hillary Angel who is the Public Relations Manager for the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism for contributing this Guest Post.

I recently came across a great infographic that helps us to clearly understand the impact of our inane affection to bottled water.

It’s hard to understand why many hotels continue to provide bottled water both in-room and in conference & meeting space . . . Social and corporate environmental responsibility dictates otherwise and there are many other great alternatives.

Check it out.

Via: Term Life Insurance