DALLAS—Motel 6 and Studio 6 have completed Green Key certification of the network’s 1,100 locations. After committing in January 2011 to rank and certify all properties within the network, the company achieved this goal in less than six months.
The Green Key Eco-Rating Program is one of the first of its kind to rank, certify and inspect hotels and resorts based on their commitment to sustainable “green” practices. The certification process consists of a 150-question online self-assessment regarding corporate environmental strategy, housekeeping and engineering. The Green Key certification process also includes:
• Being ranked 1 to 5 Keys based on responses to audit questions;
• Receipt of a performance report with recommendations, best practices and potential areas for improvement and savings;
• Listing on the www.greenkeyglobal.com website;
• Access to online member resources and tools; and
• On-site verification of self-audit responses by Green Key auditors.
To actively engage all general managers, the Motel 6/Studio 6 energy team developed an interactive online training course outlining the Green Key process and its importance at both a property and corporate level. This preparation meant general managers were equipped with the knowledge and insight to more effectively complete the Green Key self-assessment as part of the certification process.
Online Process Worked
“This approach proved to be very useful, as it made the certification process fairly seamless for the managers,” said Renee Swoger, director of energy & environment services for Accor NA. “As travelers are becoming savvier about choosing brands based on their environmental policies, Green Key certification is a great tool to help us educate our guests about our commitment to sustainability and efficient use of our resources.”
Each Motel 6 and Studio 6 location will soon display a plaque in the lobby indicating the hotel’s level of Green Key certification (one to five keys). Motel 6 and Studio 6 benefit from the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AH&LA) partnership with Green Key, which offers members a significant discounted fee on the rating process.
Originally developed for the Hotel Association of Canada by a leading environmental engineering firm, the Green Key program focuses on sound sustainable practices, specifically in the lodging industry.
