In the Lodging Industry, Going Green Has Become the Norm
Big hotel chains that were once deemed wasteful are now battling it out to see who can outsmart the other when it comes to going green. In a recent survey of U.S. hotels, 68% said they now have energy-efficient lights, and many are now re-using towels and linens.
Properties are trying to become LEED certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), and this label may be earned by more than 500 hotels soon. As recently as four years ago, only 1 hotel had earned this label.
Some of the measures that hotels are taking in their efforts to save energy include:
Replacing light bulbs with energy efficient bulbs
Placing sensors in rooms that cause the thermostat to readjust when a guest leaves
Conserving water by repairing all drips and leaks in hotel bathrooms
Replacing toilets, showerheads and faucets with water-saving fixtures. This has already been implemented in the Hilton brands facilities in Europe. This change is being made in several hotel chains, including the Hyatt, Marriott and Starwood. Starwood also proposes to have water-efficient landscaping.
Recycling is also a big trend with major hotels. Some are using recycled wood for laminate flooring, while others claim that no can, bottle or plastic key card will go to waste. Marriott has eliminated styrofoam and plastic utensils from all locations.
Indeed, the lodging world is looking very green!
