DOVER — Senator Coons visited Dover Downs Hotel & Casino today to tout the progress of its “Green Initiatives” program. Dover Downs President and CEO Ed Sutor energized the crowd of about 40 when he revealed the company’s total utility savings through conservation:
- 5,404,019 kWh – electric over four years
- 256,045 CCF – natural gas over four years
- Over 13.4 Million gallons of water over four years
It all adds up to a reduction of 5,507 metric tons of carbon dioxide.
To do it, Dover Downs installed more than 26,000 energy-saving light bulbs, weather sensors for its irrigation system, and three new compactors that separate organic kitchen waste, recyclable waste, and landfill. It also has begun using ‘green’ chemicals and initiated a voluntary linen-reuse program.
“The steps Dover Downs has taken toward becoming a ‘Green Hotel’ has significantly reduced its environmental impact, and has saved the company a tremendous amount of money,” Senator Coons said. “Dover Downs has been successful in its green efforts because it has created a partnership with public and private entities, and has made it a part of the culture here — even designating a ‘Green Team’ within the staff. As a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, I commend Dover Downs for its dedication to conservation.”
Dover Downs began its “Green Initiatives” program in 2006, and has continued to be aggressive in looking for additional conservation savings and sustainability practices.