ORLANDO, FLA.—The 2011 NEWH Leadership Conference taking place at the , Universal Orlando, January 13 to 16, is delving into one of the industry’s hottest topics: sustainability. To kick off the green programming, a session on Friday, January 14 from 1:30 to 2:30 pm will look at sustainable certificates and standards for products including textiles and flooring. Confirmed panelists include Kenneth Koneck of Valley Forge Fabrics; John Reader of Desso Carpets; David Mahood, Olive Hospitality Consulting; Lora Spran, Associate Design Manager, Walt Disney World; and moderator Glenn Hasek, publisher and editor of Green Lodging News.
On Saturday afternoon, January 15 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., attendees can listen in on a thought-provoking Q&A discussion with Florida coastal ecology experts on the state of Florida’s coastal environment and the importance of sustainable development.
The keynote speaker will be Adrienne Pumphrey, the global head of Adoba Eco Hotel & Suites. The 25-year industry veteran will present Adoba’s case study, a brand conceived in sustainability from the get-go. Launched on Earth Day 2010, its design and concept is pushing the envelope with responsible architecture (each new build will achieve Platinum or minimum Gold LEED certification) and is a clear departure from traditional brand developments with its four-tiered guestroom-and-suite blended concept.
“The forthcoming NEWH Leadership Conference in Orlando exemplifies NEWH’s passion for advancing sustainability through the pathways of its industry,” says David Mahood, NEWH’s vice president of sustainable hospitality. “The various educational sessions dedicated to sustainable hospitality are a convergence of diverse topics as well as sources. By offering the vision of a new sustainable hotel brand, the wisdom of sustainable producers and educators, and the compelling scientific research of some of Florida’s top coastal ecologists, we are furthering our committee’s mission of educating our expansive membership. Coupled with the roster of exceptional industry leaders scheduled to appear, this conference will be a testament to NEWH’s wide influence and its ongoing commitment to promoting environmental goodwill.”
Click here for more information on the conference or to register.
