VANCOUVER, B.C.—The 233-room Pacific Palisades Hotel, a champion of recycling since it became a Kimpton property seven years ago, has increased its recycling efforts to include used batteries, light bulbs, fluorescent lamps and food waste. The initiative is part of the property’s plan to operate profitably while implementing sustainable practices. Linda Chin, hotel manager, says the hotel in Vancouver, B.C. has been recycling office paper, cardboard, newspaper, cans and bottles for seven years. Recycling containers throughout the property ensure that recyclables are kept separate from other waste. Recently, however, hotel management decided to increase the number of items...

AUSTIN, TEXAS—Hotel owners and operators just beginning to consider green practices should investigate the Habitat Suites Hotel, one of the lodging industry’s leading advocates of sustainable business practices. The 96-suite hotel has reduced its operating expenses by 18 percent as a result of it comprehensive environmental program. The property has come a long way since it first opened its doors in May 1985. The hotel was not designed or built with ecological considerations in mind. In 1991, it became a charter member of the Green Hotels Assn., making its commitment to sustainable management official. Fifteen years later, evidence...

VANCOUVER, WASH.—The 226-room Hilton Vancouver, Washington, will know later this summer if it will become one of the United States’ first hotels to obtain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. LEED is a building rating system established by the U.S. Green Building Council, Washington, D.C. The hotel, which is owned by the city of Vancouver, is managed by Beverly Hills, Calif.-based Hilton Hotels Corp. It was designed by Portland, Ore.-based Fletcher Farr Ayotte (FFA). The design incorporates myriad sustainable design strategies, including sensors that adjust the climate control systems when rooms and hallways are vacant,...