Environmental protection has become a community effort in a number of Florida cities. Here are a few examples of some high-impact local initiatives.
- Key West is one of Florida’s most walkable cities, but other modes of transportation can be nearly as eco-minded. Five 6’s Taxi recently debuted 10 environmentally friendly hybrid vehicles as the first step in converting its entire fleet. The company projects that the new fuel-efficient vehicles will get about 38 miles per gallon in the city, compared to its previous 12- to 13-mpg gas guzzlers.
- The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel is addressing habitat loss and climate change by donating to The Conservation Fund’s Go Zero program to offset the carbon footprint of meetings in the destination. The VCB already offsets its own events with the Fund and is encouraging meeting properties and meeting planners to do the same.
- In downtown Punta Gorda, fuel might be rendered obsolete thanks to the city’s free Yellow Bike Loaner Program. All you need to enjoy a bicycle for an hour or a day is a credit card, driver’s license and signature of waiver. Bicycles are offered on a space-available basis at various locations, including the Four Points by Sheraton, Fishermen’s Village Marina and the Wyvern Hotel.
