California Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. has awarded California’s Hilton Concord with the 2013 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA). Hilton Concord was also the recipient for the GEELA Environmental and Economic Partnerships award and is the first Hilton hotel to win this award.
GEELA is California’s highest and most prestigious environmental honor. This program recognizes individuals, organizations, and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made notable contributions in conserving resources, protecting and enhancing the environment, and building public-private partnerships.
“Hilton Concord is a true leader in the hospitality industry and their sustainability project was deemed exceptional for its innovative spirit and value to California’s environment and economy,” says Matt Rodriquez, secretary for environmental protection. “Hilton Concord proves that you can support and promote environmental values without sacrificing business objectives. They understand that going green can be a successful economic strategy that can also lead to sustainable growth and development.”
As part of the hotel’s recent multi-million dollar renovation, numerous sustainability initiatives were implemented. The hotel uses a high-efficiency laundry system that conserves water, electrical power, and natural gas and diverts compostable and recyclable materials from the landfill through the installation of a Biodigester, a Pillow Vac, and an extensive recycling program. Hilton Concord also installed 100 percent LED and high efficiency lighting throughout, as well as a Pelican Wireless HVAC energy management system, solar window film, Eco-flush water saving toilets, Energy Star efficient equipment, and Verdafero software to track success.
Additionally, Hilton Concord offers one of the largest electric vehicle charging stations in Northern California and a concept restaurant, Plate & Vine, which serves sustainable locally-sourced and regionally-inspired cuisine.
