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,
Green Citizen
at least 25% meet the above criteria.
Green Leader
at least 50% meet the above criteria.
Green Role Model
at least 75% meet the above criteria.
Green Champion
at least 90% meet the above criteria.
To learn more about the Greenopia and their ratings, visit www.greenopia.com.