November 10, 2008

Hotel Valencia Santana Row expands eco-friendly initiatives

Hotel enhances products and services to keep environment safe

Hotel Valencia Santana Row is expanding its sustainable program by enhancing building features such as lighting, electricity and resources for the restaurant. Since its inception, the hotel has been a leader in contributions for a more eco-friendly and sustainable environment for guests and the city of San Jose. From January 2008 through May 2008, Hotel Valencia Santana Row was noted by Energystar.gov to have reduced its carbon imprint by 47,740 pounds.

The hotel was one of the first in the area to install an advanced Ozone laundry system, designed to reduce water usage by as much as 35 percent and dryer time by as much as 60 percent.  In addition to decreasing energy costs, the Ozone system is known as the most powerful disinfectant and oxidant commercially available.

“Hotel Valencia’s sustainability program is vital to rising energy costs and environmental concerns,” said Bonnie Best, general manager of Hotel Valencia Santana Row. “We continue to seek ways to reduce our environmental footprint and are proud to be a community leader in this effort.”

Additionally, the hotel has added energy efficient light bulbs throughout the property—replacing standard bulbs with 27-watt CFLs and 12 v 37-watt infrared bulbs. All outside lighting is placed on timers to minimize usage and extend the life of the bulbs. Other enhancements include low-flow toilets, room key cards made from biodegradable products and HeatSvr—a liquid pool blanket to reduce natural gas usage in pool and spa area. 

Sustainable and organic practices also extend to Hotel Valencia’s Citrus Restaurant. Executive Chef Victor Lopez relies on local farmers and fishermen to obtain the freshest ingredients, thus decreasing emissions associated with shipping. Organic wines made from grapes grown without chemical fertilizers, weed killers, insecticides, and other synthetic chemicals are offered in Citrus, as well as the Vbar. 

Hotel Valencia Santana Row continues to research additional sustainability initiatives and products. For more information, contact Bonnie Best at bbest@valenciagroup.com or 408-551-0010.