WASHINGTON, D.C.—Green Seal is proposing a criterion revision to its existing Standard for Hotels and Lodging Properties, GS-33. This revision proposes to extend the transition period between Bronze and Silver levels of certification from the currently mandatory one year, to three years. This amendment would make GS-33 more consistent with other Green Seal service standards, namely GS-46, Green Seal’s Standard for Restaurants and Food Service Operations. Green Seal also recognizes the challenges of the industry of capital expenses or additional training of staff and sees that by extending the Bronze-level timeline, it becomes a more effective entry level; while still encouraging continuous improvement.
This amendment also includes minor modifications to the scope of the Standard. The modification would clarify that the Standard is applicable to lodging properties around the world and that this Standard does not include restaurant certification.
Green Seal’s Environmental Standard for Lodging Properties, first published in 1995, has been instrumental in helping to green the lodging industry and creating a positive ROI for hotels that have implemented the recommended changes.
Green Seal is soliciting public comment on these proposed amendments until January 7, 2010. Click here to register as a stakeholder or to learn more about these proposed changes.
