There are many ways for a hotel to be green. Although it’s hard to implement every green idea, the more eco-friendly features a hotel has, the greener it becomes. Below are some green living characteristics that you might find in an eco-friendly hotel.

Water Conservation

low flow toilets.
low flow shower heads.
aerators on bathroom sinks to reduce water usage.
water recycling using the grey water that comes from kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Saving Energy

LED light bulbs for all the lighting fixtures in hotel because they last longer, are durable and energy efficient.
installed energy efficient windows that improve insulation.
energy efficient HVAC system.
Energy Star rated televisions and air conditioners in every room.
energy efficient appliances in hotel kitchens and laundry rooms.
renewable energy sources such as solar panels on the roof or a wind turbine on property.
highly insulated to discourage the escape of heat or air conditioning.
Food Service

using locally grown foods to support local farmers, and reduce the gasoline and other costs needed to transport food long distances.
reusable dishes and utensils to reduce waste.
Improved Indoor Air Quality

room windows that open to let in fresh air.
has a fresh air exchange system.
doesn’t use air fresheners because most of these products contain chemicals and artificial aromas.
having plants in common areas to improve air quality by absorbing toxins in the air
housekeeping uses green non-toxic cleaning products and laundry detergents such as Green Seal certified products.
strict non-smoking policy in rooms and common areas.
Bedding and Furniture in Rooms

furniture made of sustainable source material, like 100 percent natural latex.
use of natural fiber sheets, linens, towels, and mattresses to reduce sensitivity issues.
towel and sheet reuse program so guests can use these items for more than one day to reduce water usage.
use of reclaimed or recycled materials for flooring or as building materials.
use of non-VOC or low-VOC interior and exterior paints.
Other Green Living Features

recycling bins in lobby, all rooms, offices, and common areas
transportation service that uses hybrid, electric or solar powered cars, or provides bicycles for guests to use
Green Seal certified toilet paper, facial tissue, and paper towels in all rooms
brochures and marketing material printed on 100% recycled paper
stationary given to guests made of recycled paper
bulk soap, shampoos, and lotions given to guests instead of individually packaged toiletries to cut down on waste
non-smoking policies