33 Ways Going "Green" Will Save You Money

Go Green

Going Green can help save money, the environment, and improve your hotel's image. Hugo Martin from the Los Angeles Times writes that nearly 60% of travelers are basing their hotel visits on whether or not they are eco-friendly. Learn how to save money on electricity, water, and recycling with our list on how to make your hotel greener!

Save Electricity

1. Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient fluorescent bulbs.
2. Turn off electronics when they are not in use. This goes for lights, computers, televisions, etc.
3. Use fans instead of air conditioning when possible.
4. Make sure all windows and doors are properly sealed. Caulk areas where air leaks are present.
5. During winter, cover windows with plastic to retain as much heat as possible.
6. Close the drapes during summer to keep the heat out. During winter, the drapes will help keep heat inside.
7. Put lights on motion sensors to eliminate unnecessary electricity consumption.
8. Install programmable thermostats to avoid unnecessary heating and cooling costs.
9. Use daylight to light rooms
10. Buy Energy Star rated products
11. Use "smart power strips" that automatically shut down when electronics are not in use.
12. Wash linens with cold water.
13. Lower the temperature of your hot water. Nobody enjoys scalding hot showers!
14. Hang dry linens to cut down on drying costs. Hang drying extends the life of linens.

Save Water

15. Wash towels and linens after each guest rather than each day.
16. Install low-flow shower heads.
17. Install toilet tank diverters which can save as much as 3/4 gallon per flush.
18. Install sink aerators.
19. Fix leaking toilets and sinks as problems occur.
20. Direct downspouts to gardens or other areas that require watering.
21. Use rain barrels to collect rain water for other uses.

Recycling

22. Donate used soap to organizations such as Clean the World.
23. Put recycling bins in guest rooms.
24. Recycle/donate old equipment, linens, etc.
25. Use old sheets as cleaning rags.
26. Reuse plastic shopping bags for wastebasket liners.
27. Reuse printed paper as scrap paper.
28. Go paperless by going online. Get paperless billing statements and order online!
29. Install signs that direct guests to turn lights off, reuse towels, and reuse linens.
30. Use less laundry detergent. You can get away with using 1/2 to 2/3 of the recommended amount.
31. Use biodegradable cleaners. Your housekeepers will appreciate it too!
32. Use low VOC paints- short for "volatile organic compounds."
33. Use rechargeable batteries in television remotes and other remote controlled items around your hotel.

Want to Learn More?

• Hotel Certification Programs
• LEED Certification
• Environmental Protection Agency
• Green Hotels Association
• The TripAdvisor GreenLeaders Program
• EarthCheck Certification

Be Smart. Save Money. Go Green.