HEATHROW, FLA.—Green Lodging News has learned that AAA will include an “eco” icon in its 2010 TourBook editions to indicate properties that promote environmental and energy conservation. The “eco” option will also be included as an advanced search option in AAA’s hotels section on its website. Only those properties that are AAA approved or Diamond rated will be eligible. Properties must also be a certified green lodging site as part of one of a number of state or national green lodging programs. For example, in order for a property in Florida to be included, it must be not only be AAA approved or Diamond rated, but also part of the Florida Green Lodging Program.
According to Heather Hunter, public relations manager for AAA in Heathrow, Fla., just as a property will be noted as having a pool, a casino, allowing pets, etc., it will be designated as eco-friendly. It is something AAA members are interested in, Hunter says. A section in front of each TourBook will explain the meaning of the “eco” icon.
AAA is currently in contact with those running the various national and state level programs in order to collect lists of the certified properties. The organizations that have agreed to partner with AAA so far include: Energy Star, Green Globe, Green Seal, Green Key, California Green Lodging Program, Delaware Green Lodging, Florida Green Lodging Program, Partnership for a Sustainable Georgia, Hawaii Green Business Program, Green Lodging Michigan, Missouri Certified Green Program, New Hampshire Sustainable Lodging & Restaurant Program, Vermont’s Green Hotels in the Green Mountain State, Virginia Green Lodging, and Travel Green Wisconsin.
AAA currently has 51 million members. Its 26 TourBook guides include detailed information for more than 31,000 hotels.
Go to AAA.
