LAS VEGAS, Aug. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Bellagio is world-renowned for the spectacular floral exhibitions found within its sunlit Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Each display memorably showcases tens of thousands of flowers, plants and organic materials in artful vignettes. When an exhibit ends, however, the journey just begins for each planting - all find a new beginning through a composting endeavor that turns them into nutrient-rich mulch, creating an endless circle of life.

Actively dedicated to environmentally sustainable practices, Bellagio's expert Horticulture staff composted and recycled more than 600 tons of materials in 2009 alone including flowers, trees, shrubs and plants. In addition, Bellagio's Conservatory & Botanical Gardens now lines its horticulture beds with a layer of recycled tire bits, instead of mulch, eliminating the need to constantly replace the drainage barrier. A Horticulture staff of 40 creates and maintains each spectacular display of nature in full bloom.

"Bellagio understands the vital importance of recycling and the impact we have on the environment by doing our part," said Director of Horticulture Andy Garcia. "Our Horticulture staff works extremely hard to envision and implement spectacular floral displays, and we work equally hard to determine ways to recycle and reuse these materials. As a result of that effort, I am pleased to say nearly 100 percent of our exhibits reappear as mulch either within the Conservatory or the surrounding grounds of Bellagio."

Cindy Ortega, Senior Vice President of Energy and Environmental Services for MGM Resorts International, said, "Being green isn't just about putting a cup in a recycling bin. 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. Bellagio's horticulture recycling endeavor is a shining example of MGM Resorts International's dedication to this earth-first philosophy."

The corporate-wide sustainability practices of MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) have led to substantial reductions in electricity, gas and water usage at all of its properties. To learn more about the company's global commitment to green practices, visit www.mgmresorts.com/company/environmental-responsibility.aspx. For more on Bellagio's sustainability efforts, go to www.bellagio.com/hotel/sustainability.aspx.

SOURCE MGM Resorts International