Rising energy costs, combined with the current economic challenges and increased environmental awareness, have a significant impact on the lodging industry. Energy expenses have escalated upwards to 10 percent of gross revenue in typical full-service properties, with an even higher impact expected with reduced occupancy. Meanwhile, both consumers and law makers seek reduction in energy use worldwide, and the lodging industry is recognized as one of the most intensive users of energy in the commercial sector. Reducing energy costs while continuing to meet the comforts and convenience of guests can be challenging. Guests need the ability to control their room...

The average conference leaves in its wake piles of plastic name badges, resting upon hundreds of plastic water bottles, disposable cups, plates and plastic utensils. At the end of many events, the floors and hotel rooms are scattered with pages and pages of printed brochures and handouts on virgin paper, not to mention promotional goodies like plastic pens, mouse pads and magnets. If the venue does not have a strong recycling program, all of this is taken to the landfill or incinerator. The reality is that a meeting impacts the environment in a number of ways, including the greenhouse gases...

In an era when ‘eco’ products are saturating the markets and greenwashing is rampant, it can be difficult to evaluate which choices are truly good for the environment and also the bottom line. Guests of hotels and hospitality properties are increasingly aware of their own negative impact on the natural world so it’s no surprise that properties must compete for consumer approval by promoting themselves as environmentally friendly or green. Designing and installing landscapes for hotels, restaurants, resorts and other mixed-use hospitality properties creates unique challenges when trying to be environmentally friendly. Where others might be able to sacrifice aesthetics...

NATIONAL REPORT—Going green can reduce operating costs and can help differentiate you from the competition, but many in the lodging industry are not aware of the significant federal tax benefits available. With ever-increasing energy costs, an unprecedented level of government mandates for green building, heightened demand for green construction, and improvements and better pricing for environmentally sustainable materials, many owners, architects, and facility managers are considering significant updates to save cash. Sec. 179D of the IRS Code provides a significant deduction for the cost of energy-efficient improvements to commercial property. With an estimated 4.5 million existing commercial properties in the...

As energy prices rise and the issue of global warming becomes more important to the public, businesses throughout the country are looking to reduce their energy consumption and their carbon footprints. By improving energy performance, owners and operators of commercial properties can reduce operating expenses while demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship that customers are starting to expect. The lodging industry, in particular, has demonstrated a renewed interest in energy efficiency and resource conservation, with many hoteliers incorporating these goals into their core business strategies. One important “green” strategy is the development of procurement policies that encourage the purchase of...

What do I have to do to call my meeting or event green? Is there any industry accepted certification for green meetings that I can apply for? What kind of criteria does my facility need to meet in order to be called green? How do you know if you are green enough? What is that one clear measurement you can turn to that will demonstrate to investors, customers and employees that you are committed to sustainability? What is the role of government and industry in setting the standards? Ultimately, how can you be involved? ASTM, APEX & GMIC and Why You...

Food service can be an accessible entry point for greening your operations that will have a direct impact on your customers, suppliers and community. Start seasoning your food purchasing decisions with sustainable options and watch the green grow on multiple levels beyond just the bottom line as greening your menu can help increase customer loyalty, deepen community ties and help the planet. As energy prices continue to rise and environmental awareness grows, the organic foods segment continues to snowball at about 20 percent annually. According to a recent study released by Organic Alliance, Inc., more people than ever are seeking...

Having been personally committed to helping save our environment for as long as I can remember, it is exciting to read lately about the numerous hotels and hotel brands that are minimizing their impact on the environment, reducing waste and even introducing “Green Rooms” as an accommodation type. While this is all exciting, there’s still the vast majority of hotels that have yet to make any effort to reduce waste or to help guests go “green.” Not to worry; today’s business and leisure travelers face numerous opportunities every day to immediately reduce their negative impact on the environment. All we have...

Use of the term “sustainable” has been increasing in the business world, especially in tourism. By definition, “to sustain” means to give support or relief. “Sustainable” businesses function to maintain or improve the present and future quality of people’s lives. Companies continue to realize that consumers are spending their money consciously, considering more than just the material goods they take home from the store. Consumers are beginning to realize that when they support sustainable businesses, their dollars can impact social and environmental concerns. This group of influential and leading-edge thinkers, representing LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability), seeks out companies...

Green is the new black. Climate change is now embraced by the likes of Wal-Mart. Even Chevron and GMC are feeling the heat. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the food they eat, their children’s toys, and the cleaning products they use at home. Undeniably, sustainability presents one of the hottest business opportunities today. However, the challenges are real. Many hotels are still unsure about what it means to be green and where to begin. They’re uncertain that consumers are really willing to pay more for green rooms, meetings or amenities. Some hoteliers believe that green and a polished guest experience...