Sheraton Austin at the Capitol to Participate in Earth Hour on March 27 (United States)
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Sheraton Austin at the Capitol to Participate in Earth Hour on March 27 (United States)
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Category: North America & West Indies / Carribean islands - United States
This is a press release selected by our editorial committee and published online for free on 2010-03-24
Underscores Hotel's Commitment to Sustainability/Energy Conservation
Officials at the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol in Texas today announced that the hotel will participate on March 27 in Earth Hour, a global climate change initiative organized by the World Wildlife Fund. The hotel, along with hundreds of millions of people -- individuals, businesses, governments and communities -- in 92 countries worldwide will turn out their lights for a period of one hour, beginning at 8:30 p.m., to show their support for action on climate change. The Sheraton Austin at the Capitol is managed by HEI Hotels & Resorts, and was recently awarded the prestigious Energy Star Partner of the Year award.
"Events like Earth Hour play a critical role in raising awareness about climate change and the importance of going green," said Chris Alto, the Sheraton Austin's general manager. "Reducing energy consumption is just part of our commitment to becoming a better member of our community."
The Sheraton Austin was the only Austin-area hotel to participate in Earth Hour 2009, and was excited by the feedback of guests, employees and the local community. Earth Hour is one of many energy-saving initiatives that have been undertaken by the hotel in an attempt to become better stewards of the environment.
"Austin is one of the most eco-sensitive cities in the nation, and this event allows us to demonstrate to our community that we share its values," Alto said. "Our employee team feels just as passionate about going green, and our goal this year is to get more staff and guests involved in this special event."
There are a number of approaches the hotel uses to achieve its energy conservations goals, including encouraging guests to participate by shutting off lights and televisions in their room; turning off all non-essential lighting in banquet rooms, public spaces, restaurant, and lobby bar; turning off all public televisions; and shutting off patio lights and the Sheraton sign.
To celebrate Earth Hour, the hotel will host a special event in the lobby on March 27 between 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., featuring two local musicians. Joey Curran will play acoustic guitar from 7:30 to 8:30, followed by a performance by the After Hours Band from 8:30 to 9:30. During the performances, the hotel will serve local and organic drink specials and appetizers in the bar.
Earth Hour began in 2007 in Sydney, Australia when two million people switched off their lights. Last year, hundreds of millions of people participated in more than 4,000 cities and towns across 88 countries. According to event founders at World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour is an opportunity for the global community to speak with one voice on the issue of climate change.
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