This business runs two LEED certified green hotels in the heart of downtown San Francisco. They installed new efficient hot water storage tanks, actuators, thermometers and pressure gauges; placed LED bulbs in every guest room; and, installed flow restrictors and aerators in guest bathrooms. The company purchased ENERGY STAR appliances, FSC-certified wood furniture and recycled products, and uses low or no-VOC paints, adhesives and sealants. They limit their food and beverage menu to items produced within a 100 mile radius. They implemented a strict recycling and composting program throughout the hotel from housekeeping to the kitchen, and offer the option to guests to participate in their re-use program for towels and bed linens. For alternative transportation, the company encourages their employees to use commuter checks – a pre-tax benefit that lowers commuting costs, and Zipcars – employees can sign up for a Zipcar with no application fee and reduced annual fee and rates. It pays to be energy efficient! During 2001 and 2002, nearly one-third of California businesses cut overall energy use by at least 20%, saving California companies millions of dollars. Over the next decade, California could realistically and cost-effectively reduce its peak electricity needs by 5,900 Megawatts (MW), saving businesses and residents an estimated $12 billion.
