Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Florida, The Glades Resort stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship and sustainable living. From its innovative one-megawatt solar farm to its recognition as a runner-up for the prestigious OHI’s Plan-It Green Park of the Year Award, this resort is redefining what it means to be eco-friendly in the hospitality industry. In a warm interview with GM Marci Mathewson and Owner Tom Tripoli, we got an inside look at their environmental efforts and how they’re making a difference in the world, one camper at a time.
Imagine a resort where every ray of sunshine contributes to a greener future. At The Glades, this vision is a reality thanks to their pioneering one-megawatt solar farm. Spanning four acres of pristine Florida landscape, this solar array not only powers the entire resort but also feeds excess energy back into the grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing carbon emissions. As guests soak in the warm Florida sun, they can take pride in knowing that their stay is powered by clean, renewable energy.
And here are the numbers to prove it. Over the solar farm’s lifetime, the farm will eliminate 35,882 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the resort’s footprint. To put that into perspective, it’s equivalent to planting 836,051 trees, driving 71,764,000 fewer auto miles, or recycling 113,387 tons of waste. The farm also displaces CO2 emissions from the annual electric use of 4,068 homes and prevents the burning of 34,964,190 pounds of coal while conserving 875,162,500 gallons of water used by thermoelectric power plants.
The Glades doesn’t stop at solar power. Their commitment to environmental stewardship permeates every aspect of the resort. From LED lighting and low-volume toilets to relocating honeybees and implementing water-saving measures, every effort is made to minimize the resort’s ecological footprint. Additionally, the resort’s nine-hole golf course is accredited by the International Audubon Society for its environmentally friendly maintenance practices.
The Glades’ commitment to sustainability goes beyond energy production—it’s ingrained in every aspect of their operations. Through their participation in OHI’s Plan-It Green Friendly Park Program, they have demonstrated a dedication to eco-friendly practices that set them apart as a leader in Outdoor Hospitality. And their participation has not gone unnoticed. As a runner-up for OHI’s Plan-It Green Park of the 2022 Year Award, they’ve proven their dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Florida’s landscapes while providing guests with an unforgettable outdoor experience. They also run “Can it for the Planet,” where volunteers collect and recycle aluminum cans throughout the park; every effort is geared towards minimizing the resort’s carbon footprint.
Oh yeah, their golf courses’ greens are greener too. The Glades RV Resort lies a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts—the Glades Golf Course. Designed by a seasoned professional, this nine-hole course offers over 3000 yards of lush fairways and pristine greens, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. And with weekly events like scrambles and tournaments, there’s always something exciting happening at this picturesque golfing destination.
And with all of this going on, they still have big, big plans for the future. Imagine a resort where every golf cart hums quietly, fueled by the sun’s rays. That’s the vision at The Glades, where a fleet of solar-powered golf carts is set to revolutionize transportation within the park. And it won’t stop there—plans for solar heating in the second swimming pool round out their commitment to harnessing renewable energy.
What sets The Glades apart is its sense of community. Here, guests aren’t just visitors. From weekly events to seasonal celebrations, pickleball tournaments, golf scrambles, a vast nature trail, and a thriving marina, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of Florida’s natural wonders while knowing that conservation is a top priority. With new projects on the horizon and a dedication to preserving the environment for future generations, the future looks bright for The Glades Resort.
