Green Key Global Invited to Speak at Midwest Lodging Investment Summit: Leading "Green" Hotel Certification Program will Participate in "Is Green Still Relevant" Panel Discussion
Tony Pollard, Managing Director of Green Key Global, has been invited to speak at the 3rd Annual Midwest Lodging Investors Summit (MLIS) next week in Chicago, IL.

HORSHAM, PA, July 08, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Tony Pollard, Managing Director of Green Key Global, the exclusive provider of the Green Key Eco-Rating Program ("Green Key") in the United States, has been invited to speak at the 3rd Annual Midwest Lodging Investors Summit (MLIS) next week in Chicago, IL. The session, titled "Is Green Still Relevant," will take place on Monday, July 12th at 2:15 PM at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers.

The panel discussion has been designed to help operators understand how they can effectively adopt and maintain sustainable hotel practices in light of the mounting cost and revenue pressures in the current hospitality market. Joining Pollard on the panel will be Diana Driscoll, LEED AP and CEO of Ridgeline Hospitality and Nicholas Rumanes, Vice President of Development for Las Vegas Sands Corp. Jonathan Douglas, Managing Principal of VOA Associates, Inc., will moderate.

"My response to the question 'Is Green Still Relevant' is a resounding yes, even in these challenging economic times," Pollard said. "But clearly that is a question that needs to be asked as developers and operators alike are looking for the return on their investment. Green Key helps its members realize financial returns while reducing the property's environmental footprint.

Green Key, the leading green hotel certification program in North America, ranks, certifies and inspects hotels based on their commitment to sustainable operations and practices. The program consists of a 150- question self-audit that results in a ranking of 1-5 keys, as well as on-site inspections. In addition, members receive comprehensive performance reports, a membership plaque, access to exclusive member resources, listing on the www.greenkeyglobal.com website and exposure via Green Key's network of marketing partners, including AAA, Travelocity and Expedia. New to Green Key, the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) recently announced that it has partnered with Green Key for delivery of the program as a benefit for its members.

"Green Key is a prominent and growing voice in the sustainable lodging landscape and Tony Pollard has been a key component of that voice for the past decade," explained Ed Watkins, editor of Lodging Hospitality, the conference producer. "His insight into the tangible benefits of implementing green programs will be valuable takeaways for our attendees."
There is still time to register for the 3rd Annual Midwest Lodging Investors Summit, which will run from July 11-13. For more information on Green Key, visit www.greenkeyglobal.com, call +1.888.752.7061 or email info@greenkeyglobal.com.

Press Release Contact Information:

Zach Conen
Green Key Global
VP of Marketing - US Region
300 Welsh Road
Horsham, PA
US 19044
Voice: +1.888.752.7061
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