Hotels have come a long way in an effort to increase their “green” factor. While many started with a simple recycling bin, some of the best have now incorporated incredible eco-friendly features, like green roofs and even biodegradable laundry detergent. If you are getting ready to take a vacation, but you want to be as green as possible while away from home, consider these four green hotel picks.
The Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles, California
Blazing the path for other hotels interested in going green, the Westin Bonaventure’s mission is to be self-sufficient. They engage in composting, have biodegradable laundry detergent, and work with a number of green vendors in an effort to be as environmentally responsible as possible.
Hotel Terra in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
If you are looking for a cold-weather adventure, Hotel Terra might be the place for you. Offering access to a number of skiing and snowboarding opportunities, this hotel is also eco-friendly. Built using low VOC paint and carpets, accommodations also have energy efficient heating and cooling systems. The final touch can be found in the bathroom; all the body wash, shampoo and conditioner is housed within refillable aluminum bottles.
Savoy Suites Hotel in Washington, D.C.
About seven years ago, the Savoy Suites Hotel began a recycling initiative for its employees and guests. From there, they continued to implement green campaigns. All of their cleaning products and detergents are 100 percent eco-friendly and their shampoo, conditioner and body wash is also green. Finally, they work with World Energy Solution, Inc. to utilize wind power throughout the hotel.
The Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida
The Renaissance Orlando offers complimentary valet parking for all guests that arrive in a hybrid vehicle. They make an effort to incorporate organic foods into their meal plans, and they also have timed light switches and motion sensors throughout the building to help conserve energy.
The Ritz Carlton in Charlotte, North Carolina
In addition to upholding traditional standards of excellence, the Ritz Carlton has a number of green features, including a vegetated green roof that helps cut down on the hotel’s air conditioning costs and provides the in-house restaurant with fresh, organic produce.
In addition, the roof is also home to two beehives which house tens of thousands of bees. Don’t worry, though; there is no need to call in a bug expert. The hotel collects all the honey and uses it for a number of different purposes. Ritz Carlton staff are all outfitted in uniforms derived from recycled plastic and there are even Trek bicycles and bicycle valets available for those staying at the hotel.
You don’t have to sacrifice your green ideals simply because you are going on vacation. By staying at any one of the many green hotels around the world, you are doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint.
