Fairmont Hotels raises money for California parks

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts consistently leads the pack as far as environmental stewardship and eco-preservation. The company’s efforts in sustainable hospitality are truly second to none and serve as a model within the industry. Keeping with this tradition, the hotel giant’s California properties are showing their support for the California State Parks Foundation’s “Save Our State Parks” campaign by providing guests the opportunity to contribute $1 dollar per room night between September 1, 2009 and November 30, 2009.

Participating properties include the Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont San Jose, Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square, Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Santa Monica and the Fairmont Newport Beach.

Fairmont is helping to raise the funds to promote the campaign and boost traveler eco-awareness.

“By collectively raising much needed funds and promoting this initiative Fairmont hopes to bring traveler attention to the California State Parks Foundation and the Save Our Parks Campaign,” said Tom Klein, Regional Vice-President of Operations and General Manager of the Fairmont San Francisco. “Guests’ generous contribution of $1 per night will help protect state parks and keep them open for today and for future generations.”

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts was the first major hotel chain in North America to embrace environmental stewardship in its daily operations through the implementation of its own Green Partnership Program, focusing on improvements in the areas of waste management, energy and water conservation, as well as a strong element of community outreach through local groups and partnerships.

“Investment in the preservation and protection of the state’s ecological and historical gems insures that future generations of children and adults will be able to experience the same sense of awe and serenity and education that those who currently visit the parks enjoy,” continued Klein. “Support of this initiative ensures the preservation and enhancement of California’s state parks for future generations.”

“The California State Parks offer travelers the opportunity to enjoy the wonders of nature and history. Even one closing impacts the lives of Californians and global visitors alike,” said Bruce Beckham, Executive Director of Tourism Cares. “We commend our long time partners at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and their guests for their concern and action to minimize the effect of these challenging times for California State Parks.”

Tourism Cares, a non-profit public charity, works to preserve the travel experience for future generations by mobilizing the travel and tourism industry and travelers alike to give back to society through grants to natural, cultural and historic sites worldwide; through academic and service-learning scholarships for students of hospitality and tourism; and through the organization of volunteer efforts to clean up and restore tourism-related sites in need of care and rejuvenation.