Tanger Outlets becomes Green Shopping Center
Doing the right thing when it comes to being environmentally sensitive, has always been an important aspect of the operations at the Tanger Outlet Center on Summerlin Road in Fort Myers.
Pro-active ‘green-wise’ programs became an even bigger focus after Tanger purchased the shopping center in 1998. As one of Florida’s top shopping attractions, thousands of bargain hunters flock to the Tanger center annually to purchase their favorite brand name merchandise at great outlet prices. These shoppers can also feel good knowing that in addition to providing a first-class shopping experience, Tanger is making an effort to help the environment.
Tanger Outlet Center has made it a priority over the years to incorporate programs and operating methods at its property that stress conservation and also help educate its customers about the area’s unique ecology. Tanger’s eco-friendly commitment can be seen in a variety of ways. These include;
Landscaping and Water Conservation:
Mitch Murray, Operations Manager of Mother Nature Lawn & Landscape, Inc., has worked with the center for over five years. During that time he has been applying chemicals considered environmentally friendly and approved by the EPA.
“I am extremely sensitive to Tanger’s green-wise approach and continually seek better ways to have the least amount of impact on our native environment,” said Murray. “We use Florida native plants whenever possible and other materials such as crushed shell in place of bark mulch to save trees. Even though Tanger uses re-claimed water for irrigation, we closely monitor the system and clock settings to ensure optimal coverage while conserving water.”
Jo Ann Rybak, General Manager of Tanger Outlets since 1996 noted, “For the past 15 years we’ve worked with environmental consultants at Bender and Associates to meet County and State environmental permit standards. Our indigenous habitat preserves and storm water retention areas are maintained on a regular basis and have been enhanced with supplemental native tree and herbaceous plantings that exceed the requirements of the County and State permit conditions. These natural areas are incorporated as a feature at Tanger with signs denoting the various native tree and plant species found on site.
Recycling:
Recycling programs for the all stores includes both cardboard and fluorescent tubes. The Management Office has discontinued use of small bottles of water, and is ‘green-wise’ with use of paper and distribution of communications to merchants.
Maintenance:
Cleaning supply purchases are being researched and ‘green’ products are added on as they can be found to accomplish the task. Fort Myers Pest Control uses ‘green’ chemicals and products for all monthly maintenance at Tanger. Roof top HVAC units are inspected quarterly to ensure clean filters are installed to save energy and in-store inspections are conducted to ensure there are no running toilets or faucets for water conservation. Tanger is now using Kaycan vinyl products and is currently undergoing a major replacement program with Kaycan GreenSENSE products.
Energy Savings:
Rybak noted that the most significant change has been in energy savings. In 2007 all the boardwalk lights were changed from metal halide fixtures to compact fluorescent and in 2008 lights in the parking lot were changed to new energy efficient pulse start fixtures. “We’ve used 116,653 less kilowatt hours from 2007 to 2008. The energy savings is equates to a savings of 70.26 metric tons of Total CO2 emissions or, 154,324.16 pounds which is a significant amount. “This savings should continue to get better as we implement more changes.” stated Rybak. Tanger has 19 soda machines and they are now on a cost-savings schedule to turn off at night and on every morning. A programmable air conditioning thermostat was installed in the Management Office to save energy. All lights and outdoor fans are on photo cells or timers and set accordingly. “Nothing is overlooked” stated Rybak.
Education:
Tanger also has educational brochures available in the office to introduce the fragile ecosystem of the area. Visitors can pick up brochures in the Management Office to learn about sea grasses, sea turtles, manatees, mangroves and many other topics.
“Our focus is on our environment and saving energy. We will continue to be proactive to find a ‘green-wise’ solution to everything we do”. “Our next focus will be to work with “Energy Star” to seek a designation from that organization,” noted Rybak.
The Tanger Outlet Center in Fort Myers is joining other Tanger centers across the country during April in encouraging its customers to Go Green. As part of the TangerStyle for a Greener World campaign, beginning April 20th and while supplies last, shoppers can receive an extra large, re-usable tote, when they make same day purchases totaling $150 or more. The tote is perfect for shopping at Tanger or anywhere else. In addition, Tanger shoppers can now enter for a chance to win a Noble Electric Car (www.thenoblecar.com). Entries are available at Tanger Shopper Service Centers or online at www.tangeroutlet.com through May 17th.
To re-enforce its eco-message, Tanger is presently offering “Go Green” Gift Cards and Packaging. The gift card is printed with an attractive eco-design and comes with unique, earth-friendly packaging which is printed on special seeded paper. Once the gift card is used, you can actually plant the gift card packaging and beautiful wild flowers will grow!
Tanger Outlet Center is located on Summerlin Road two miles before the Sanibel Causeway in Ft. Myers. Coach, Nike, Polo Ralph Loren, Tommy Hilfiger, Gymboree, Crocs, Coldwater Creek, Liz Claiborne are included in over 45 outlets. Tanger Outlet Center is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Contact: 888-471-3939 or 239-454-1974 for more information. www.tangeroutlet.com/fortmyers