I suspect you have all seen QR codes (abbreviated from Quick Response Codes) by now. They are the two-dimensional square barcodes that are being used in signage and advertisements. Because most people today have smartphones that include barcode readers, companies are increasingly using QR codes to direct clients and potential clients to helpful information. For those of you with smartphones who have not yet downloaded a QR code reader, one can easily be found through the application store on your phone. When a QR code is scanned by your phone, a browser is activated and you are taken to a specific website.
I mention QR codes because they have the potential to be used to educate your guests about anything on your property or off property related to sustainability. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of creating a QR code; I was able to create one for Green Lodging News in just a few seconds using one of the QR code generators found online.
Boston Hostel Uses QR Codes Extensively
This past week I spoke with Kelly Smith, director of marketing & sales for Hostelling International Boston and she told me QR codes are being used throughout the recently opened, LEED-pursuing, 480-bed hostel in downtown Boston. Stickers with QR codes have been placed in hundreds of locations throughout the building to explain how the hostel was constructed, how water is being conserved, how energy consumption is being reduced, etc. “In every major space you will find a sticker,” Smith says. The stickers are part of a Green G Tour the hostel has started.
When the Green Leaf Inn opens next year in Delavan, Wis., QR codes will be used to help educate guests about the different green products and technologies in use. Next month, Hyatt will launch a Flavor Journey website where kids and parents can learn more about organic foods, Hyatt’s “For Kids By Kids” menu and enjoy games and activities. Guests can use a QR code on the “For Kids By Kids” menu to link to the site. A great idea. Even suppliers are getting into the act. As reported on Green Lodging News last year, Crossville’s Sustainable Samples kit includes tile samples that feature QR codes.
As new generations of travelers emerge that expect the latest advancements in technology, it is to your advantage to meet those expectations with QR code-driven messages about all of the good, green things you are doing and how your guests can reduce their impact as they travel and in their own lives at home.
If you are already using QR codes on your property, I would love to learn how you are using them. I can be reached at editor@greenlodgingnews.com, or by phone at (216) 848-1406.
GLN Welcomes Tornado Industries/CFR Corp. as Founding Sponsor
Green Lodging News welcomes Tornado Industries/CFR Corp. as a Founding Sponsor. Tornado Industries is a provider of commercial and industrial cleaning equipment. The company’s are created to maximize cleaning efficiency and speed, minimize the impact of cleaning on indoor environments, and reduce the total cost of cleaning. The all new CK 14/1 Pro combines affordability, superior airflow, the benefits of an enclosed bag system, on-board tools, and true HEPA filtration for healthier indoor air quality. CFR Corp. designs and manufactures a complete range of eco-friendly carpet cleaning systems and high performance specialty tools. Continuous Flow Recycling (CFR) technology provides superior moisture-controlled cleaning, faster dry times and increased cleaning productivity. The company’s cleaning machines include a state-of-the-art recycling filtration system, coupled with moisture-controlled atomization wand technology to minimize carpet moisture. Click here for more information.
Green Lodging News Adds DeepStream Designs as Directory Partner
Green Lodging News welcomes DeepStream Designs as a Green Product & Service Directory partner. DeepStream Designs’ custom trash and recycling receptacles coordinate with a property’s décor with panels made from wood, recycled plastic lumber, decorative resin, metals, stone, and laminates, and are framed by marine-anodized aluminum legs. DeepStream Designs’ receptacles, modular garden planters, and custom fixtures are engineered and constructed to provide the lowest cost of ownership over time. DeepStream Designs products are made in the United States. Call (305) 857-0466, e-mail dsdmiami@gmail.com, or go to www.deepstreamdesigns.com for more information.
We Have New Contact Information!
In the past few weeks our offices have moved to 2188 Vernon Road, University Heights, Ohio 44118. Our new phone number is now (216) 848-1406. Our new fax number is (216) 848-1404. Please be sure to note this in your records.
Looking for Guest Columnists
Every two weeks Green Lodging News posts a new guest column on its website. (Click here for examples.) The guest column also appears in the weekly e-newsletter. Green Lodging News is currently in need of industry experts to contribute occasional guest columns. Experts may include consultants, architects, designers, suppliers and those who own or operate green lodging establishments. Columns may be articles that take a stance on a particular subject or be strictly educational in nature. Columnists benefit by having their photo included along with a one paragraph description of their company. Interested in writing a column? Contact Glenn Hasek, publisher and editor, at (440) 243-2055, or by e-mail at editor@greenlodgingnews.com.
Planning Advertising for the 2012 or 2013?
Green Lodging News is accepting reservations for advertising spots for 2012 and 2013. Many excellent spots are available on the website and in the weekly e-mail newsletter. Many Green Supplier Spotlight dates are also available. Interested in receiving a 2012 or 2013 media kit? Be sure to contact me as soon as possible at (216) 848-1406, or by e-mail at editor@greenlodgingnews.com. A media kit can also be accessed by clicking here. Thank you to all of those companies that consistently support Green Lodging News.
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As always, I can be reached at editor@greenlodgingnews.com.
