Coronado Ferry Landing, Peohe’s Part of Port’s Green Business Network
Coronado Ferry Landing, located at 1st Street and B Avenuein Coronado, is a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of the San Diego region. But you may not be aware of the many ways this waterfront destination is working to make its business practices more sustainable.
From recycling, to energy-efficient lighting fixtures, and sustainable foods, the Coronado Ferry Landing – and its waterfront restaurant Peohe's – are changing the way they do business.
"The Coronado Ferry Landing was built in the 1980's and we feel now is the time to make energy upgrades and updates," said Coronado Ferry Landing Property Manager Denise Schwab.
Both the landing and Peohe's are among the 59 Port of San Diego businesses that make up the Green Business Network.
The Green Business Network is an integrated energy efficiency and sustainability effort spearheaded by the Port of San Diego and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E). Members of the Network – which include Port tenant restaurants, marinas, hotels and attractions - strive to reduce their environmental impact by taking advantage of free technical assistance, attending monthly training on green business tactics, and sharing best-practices with fellow businesses.
So what makes Coronado Ferry Landing so "green?"
First, they offer an environmentally friendly commuting option to travel across San Diego Bay. Instead of making the drive over the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, it's as easy as taking a quick ferry ride. The ferry is free for morning commuters and includes a roundtrip return ticket.
"The ferry runs from about 5 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and commuters can park here for free and then ride the commuter ferry over," said Schwab. "The captain will give commuters a voucher to ride back. And this in turn helps the environment because it takes vehicles off the road every day."
In 2009, the Coronado Ferry Landing implemented a recycling program, partnering up with EDCO Recycling and Waste Services. That effort has diverted several tons of trash from landfills. Every shop or restaurant does its part to help preserve the environment and conserve energy.
"By diverting recyclable materials from the landfill during operations, the Ferry Landing and our sub-tenants saved $4,000 in 2010 and $7,000 in 2011 for a total of $11,000," said Schwab.
In addition, the Coronado Ferry Landing has plans to install motion-activated light fixtures beginning in 2013. And when it comes to water conservation, management has installed moisture sensors and sprinkler controllers, drip line irrigation, ultra-low flush toilets in restrooms, and self-metering and lead-free faucets.
"The money we save is reinvested back to into our sub-tenants through our facility improvements," said Schwab.
Sustainable Restaurant
Peohe's, dubbed as Coronado's tropical island getaway, is the newest member of the Green Business Network. They are working with SDG&E to reduce their environmental impact as well as their utility bills.
Dave Bland, Executive Chef of Peohe's, said the restaurant is also proud to be making sustainable food choices.
"We actually change our menu to ensure that we're serving sustainable fish," Bland said. "And we strive to use local produce and fish that are not only good for consumers but also the planet, reducing fuel usage, and truck traffic to get the food to us."
"Overall I think the Green Business Network has had a positive influence on the shopping center because we've been able to see real savings in electrical and water line items," added Schwab.
Coronado Ferry Landing has over 25 eclectic shops and three premier waterfront restaurants, casual eateries, bicycle rentals, a free public boat dock, and a recreational pier. It was built in 1986.
About the Port:
The Port of San Diego is the fourth largest of the 11 ports in California. It was created by the state legislature in 1962. Since then, it has invested millions of dollars in public improvements in its five member cities – Chula Vista, Coronado, Imperial Beach, National City and San Diego.
The port oversees two maritime cargo terminals, two cruise ship terminals, 17 public parks, the Harbor Police Department and the leases of more than 600 tenant and sub tenant businesses around San Diego Bay.
The Port of San Diego is an economic engine, an environmental steward of San Diego Bay and the surrounding tidelands, and a provider of community services and public safety.
