The Santa Ynez Valley Marriott is the first hotel in Santa Barbara County to complete the Green Business Program process — a county-wide collaborative effort of local governments, special districts, non-profits, utilities, chambers of commerce, and waste haulers (Info: www.greenbizsbc.org) . General Manager Mike Hendrick states, “I am very excited about our drop in energy and water consumption, our savings in trash, our new car pool program, our new free lights, and our new bulk soap and shampoo program. I feel these efforts will change the way hotels do business. If you or your business are not seriously considering doing this program, you are wasting money.”

Santa Ynez Valley Marriott Hotel staff embraced the Green Business Program of Santa Barbara County and looked at all aspects of the property’s operation for ways to improve efficiency and minimize impacts to the environment. Measures undertaken include energy efficiency, water conservation, introduction of bulk soap and shampoo dispensers in guest rooms to reduce plastic bottle waste; as well as upgrading lighting throughout the hotel and installing controls on vending and ice machines to reduce energy use. Landscaping around the property is monitored closely for water efficiency and new native and water wise plants added. Recycling programs are in place throughout the hotel, including kitchens. Employees are encouraged to rideshare and runs a monthly raffle for participating staff. 

The Santa Ynez Valley Marriott is the area’s largest full-service hotel offering 149 guest rooms including 27 suites; all non-smoking. Over 12,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and banquet space accommodates up to 400 guests. Hotel facilities include an outdoor heated pool & whirlpool spa; health club; sauna; tennis & racquetball courts, gift shop, free parking, Hertz car rental office, 24-hour business center, and free wireless Internet access throughout the property. For complete information on rates, reservations and services, call 805-688-1000 or visit www.syvmarriott.com