TradeWinds shows how to be green

TradeWinds’ Island Resorts green initiatives that include extensive paper, cardboard and aluminum recycling were cited among reasons it received the Florida Green Lodging Certification.

TradeWinds’ includes the Island Grand Resort and the Sandpiper Hotel & Suites, both on the Gulf of Mexico on the island of St. Pete Beach.

The Island Grand has also retrofitted all of its beach front lighting so that sea turtles may return to their native nesting habitat and hatchlings can more easily make their way safely to the Gulf of Mexico.

“The TradeWinds Island Grand is the first in the state to do a major retrofit to meet wildlife lighting requirements that balance sea turtle survival with human safety and security,” said Dean Gallagher, an Environmental Specialist II with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee.

The resort was also cited for its participation in the water CHAMP’s program through the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

TradeWinds recently introduced an eco-friendly package called “It’s Easy Being
Green.” It includes three-nights’ accommodations in a smoke-free room at the Island Grand or Sandpiper Suites, two tickets to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, one day beach trolley pass for two, dolphin watch or sunset sailing cruise for two, and a double travel hammock as a take-home souvenir.

Rates start at $674.

The package also includes another unusual element: a sea turtle adoption from the Clearwater Aquarium, complete with adoption papers, a biography and photos of the sea creature.

Report by David Wilkening