Bellagio Gardens Recycles Its Green

August 12, 2010 By: Melanie Gretchen Travel Agent

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Recently awarded four Green Keys by The Green Key Eco-Rating Program, the Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens has composted and recycled more than 600 tons of materials in 2009 alone. Made up of 40 members, the horticulture staff creates and maintains its floral exhibitions of tens of thousands of flowers, plants and organic materials.

At the end of each exhibit, the materials are composted into mulch, including flowers, trees, shrubs and plants. Another practice includes lining the horticulture beds with a layer of recycled tire bits to decrease the need to replace the drainage barrier.

"Being green isn't just about putting a cup in a recycling bin," said Cindy Ortega, senior vice president of Energy and Environmental Services for MGM Resorts International. "Being green is an ever-evolving consciousness that drives us to constantly look for ways to protect the environment and then ask ourselves if we can do more."

Visit www.mgmresorts.com/company/environmental-responsibility.aspx.