DALTON, GA - August 19, 2005 - The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) has joined forces with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to help Florida's lodging industry create a healthier and safer indoor environment and reduce the generation of solid waste in hotels and motels across the state. The partnership is the latest component of DEP's Green Lodging initiative, which encourages hotels and motels to adopt cost- saving 'green' practices that conserve energy, reduce water consumption, protect air quality and reduce waste.

"We are 100 percent supportive of Florida's Green Lodging initiative and feel that the synergies between what CRI has to offer and what the state's DEP is striving to achieve make for a wonderful fit. The carpet industry has worked responsibly over the years to earn its reputation as a sustainable industry, and we're excited to be working hand-in- hand with the Florida lodging industry on this project. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved," said Werner Braun, president of the Carpet and Rug Institute. "This is just another part of our integrated commitment to sustainability."

Through the public-private partnership, CRI will provide Florida's lodging industry with technical assistance on products and services that preserve air quality and reduce the generation of solid waste in their facilities. They will also provide web-based listings of products certified by CRI's Green Label, Green Label Plus and Seal of Approval (SOA) testing programs such as carpet, cushion, adhesives, vacuum cleaners, extractors and cleaning solutions. CRI will promote the Florida Green Lodging Certification Program to hotels and motels throughout the state and will encourage CRI management and staff to utilize certified Florida Green Lodges for conferences, meetings and travel.

"Florida's Green Lodges, along with organizations that provide information on green products and services, are taking a leadership role in their industry," said DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille. "Their environmental commitment serves as an example and challenge to other hotels and suppliers to adopt innovative green practices, conserve resources and save money."

The Florida Green Lodging Certification Program is a voluntary program that establishes environmental guidelines for hotels and motels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. Hotels and motels reduce costs and earn designation by investing in simple and innovative 'green' practices that conserve water, save energy, improve air quality and reduce waste. Florida is home to nine 'green' certified hotels, with ten more enrolled and working toward designation.

As reward for designation, Florida is recommending Green Lodgings to companies and trade organizations seeking eco-friendly lodging and convention facilities. For more information about the Florida Green Lodging Certification Program, visit www.floridagreenlodging.org.