Whether you are planning a family vacation, welcoming family or friends into town, or going away on business, the hotel you choose matters. Next time, when selecting a hotel, take into account factors that will affect your personal health and the health of the planet.

Greenopia has evaluated hotels in a number of key areas, all of which directly impact both the hotel guest and/or the environment. Some of the hotels listed below have an official environmental policy to which they aspire to adhere. Others are making a concerted effort to be better planetary citizens.

Greenopia's criteria is extensive and includes the following areas:

• Extent of recycling program.

• Efficient resource management including energy, water, and waste systems.

• Good ventilation and fresh air exchange for healthy indoor air.

• Use of nontoxic or low-toxic maintenance and cleaning products and practices.

• Environmentally sound purchasing practices.

• "Green" landscaping.

• Sustainable restaurant and food services.

• Eco-friendly building materials.

• Beds, bedding, towels, and other linens made of organic and/ or natural fibers; mattresses made of mostly organic, chemical- free, and/ or natural materials.

The sustainability ratings are based on,

To learn more about the Greenopia and their ratings, visit www.greenopia.com.