Ten Things to Look For in a Green Resort
 If you have decided to vacation at a green resort you want to make sure that you choose one that lives up to the label. EnviroCitizen.org has found that many companies are using the word "green" in their marketing plans, however, this does not necessarily mean they live up to the true regulations of a green resort.
EnviroCitizen.org suggests that you look for the following characteristics in a green resort:
- Native Environment - How does the green resort promote and protect the local culture? Is the local environment, including the fauna and flora taken into account? Environments is pleasant to enjoy and also means that the environment wasn’t harmed. Native environments are significantly better for the earth than manufactured environments.
- Renewable Resources - What kind of renewable resources are used by the green resort? Does the resort use solar, hydro, or wind power? Renewable resources have very positive impact on the earth. The use of renewable resources means that non-renewable resources, which quickly pollute the Earth, will not be used.
- Staff Training - Does the green resort have a strong company culture which includes the education and implementation of green practices? How are the staff involved? This is important for obvious reasons. After all, how can a resort be truly green if the staff aren’t devoted as well? The staff must be educated to understand the significance of green efforts.
- Waste Reduction - Does the hotel keep tabs on their waste reduction? This should include the use of water, electricity and other resources? Are biodegradable products used? Is all biodegradable waste recycled? Waste can affect the earth in many ways. Poor disposal can affect local plant and animal wildlife.
- Water Conservation - Are low-flow faucets and showerheads used? Does the hotel promote reusing bedding and towels by guests several times before sending them to be laundered? These things use significant amounts of water and with minimal effort can easily be reduced.
- Future Green Technology - Is the resort at the forefront of green advances and following industry trends such as the use of the latest energy-saving equipment to curb consumption? Things such as in-room sensors can turn air-conditioners on and off, conserving energy when you are out of the room.
- Stewardship - How does the hotel or resort promote environmental preservation within their community? Does it set the example by proactively and publically educating the community? A true green resort is committed to its efforts, which means they will do their best to follow their own rules as well as to promote them.
- Construction - Is the hotel structure designed to allow for breezy, open-air areas to reduce energy consumption by using natural lighting and not running air conditioners? Hotels can be easily designed with sustainable products and can also use the structure of the building to allow for natural energy, lighting and heating sources.
- Safety - Purification or sanitization systems for fluids and surfaces, based on advanced ultraviolet light technology, should be in place.
- Quality - Are quality control systems in place for food safety ?
EnviroCitizen.org wants you to enjoy the personal and environmental benefits of visiting a green resort. Make sure the one you choose lives up to your expectations and deserves your business ! |
