Midwest Renewable Energy Association receives Travel Green Wisconsin certification
MADISON, Wis. (October 24, 2006) – Travel Green Wisconsin today announced the certification of the ReNew the Earth Institute, the Midwest Renewable Energy Association’s demonstration site in Custer, Wisconsin. Travel Green Wisconsin is a program run jointly by the Wisconsin Department of Tourism and the Wisconsin Environmental Initiative and is designed to recognize tourism-related businesses that are reducing their environmental impact through operational and other improvements.
The ReNew the Earth Institute, drawing more than eighteen thousand visitors annually, is the first central Wisconsin participant to receive Travel Green Wisconsin business certification. To gain Travel Green certification businesses have to meet several goals including staff and vendor environmental awareness and reductions in solid waste generation and energy consumption.
“In 2005, the Institute generated 80% of the electricity it used on site, through wind and solar systems,” said Tehri Parker, Executive Director of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. “Additionally, our building incorporates passive solar design, features energy efficient office equipment, and houses several educational exhibits on sustainable living.”
Travel Green Wisconsin is now certifying businesses statewide. Though just in its infancy, the program – the first of its kind in the U.S. – has already been recognized by a variety of national media, including CNN, the Chicago Tribune and the New York Times.
“Wisconsin has a proud tradition of environmentalism and conservation,” said state Tourism Secretary Jim Holperin. “The Midwest Renewable Energy Fair is typical of that tradition and now has further demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability by achieving ‘Travel Green’ certification.”
The Wisconsin Environmental Initiative serves as an independent third party to certify Travel Green Wisconsin applicants. WEI does similar analysis and certification for Wisconsin’s “Green Built Homes” program.
Learn more about Travel Green Wisconsin.
