In recent years, many people and businesses in Hawaii have been making a conscious attempt to go green. This green movement promotes using eco-friendly, energy efficient products and services and that's exactly what green hotels do. Lodging is one business where both businesses and people can work together to make the world a cleaner, greener place.
Any sort of lodging can be labeled a green hotel, from B&Bs to motels to upscale luxury resorts. The one thing they all have in common is that their owners, managers, employees and guests comprehend the importance of making choices that protect the environment.
Benefits of Choosing Hawaii Green Hotels
The most apparent benefit of choosing a green hotel in Hawaii is that you are reducing your impact on the earth. Hotels produce a lot of garbage, use excessive energy and put a lot of toxins into the environment. Selecting a green hotel is one decision that can make a big difference.
Beyond feeling good about enhancing the environment, you'll also feel good physically when you pick a green hotel over standard hotels. Hawaii green hotels don't utilize harsh cleaners that include toxins that can aggravate your skin, sinuses and much more. The air is clean and fresh, free of aerosols and cigarette smoke.
For the employees who clean the rooms, work the front desk and walk the halls these health benefits are significant. When the employees feel good it will result in better customer service which will make your stay that much more enjoyable.
Most importantly, green hotels support green vendors. This support helps green venders expand and grow their businesses enabling them to provide more people healthier options.
How Hawaii Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are many ways that green hotels in HI can make their business more eco-friendly. As soon as you get to the hotel using the complementary transportation service to the time you check out and end your stay nearly every experience, product and service should be 'green'.
Water Conservation
- Low flow showerheads
- Low flow toilets
- Serving water upon request in restaurants
- Using sprinklers at optimal points during the day
- Linen cards that allow guests to use sheets more than once
Energy Conservation
- Installing ceiling fans in rooms
- Using motion sensored lights
- Florescent bulbs
- Linen cards
Reduction of Toxins and Chemicals
- Using organic pest and gardening services
- Using cleaners that exclude, dyes, harsh chemicals and fragrances
- Linen cards
Where to Find Green Hotels in Hawaii
Many states, including Hawaii, now have green lodging programs which are a great place to start your search. These programs recognize hotels that have met state standards for providing what they consider to be green lodging.
There are also many organizations that recognize and accredit green hotels. These groups often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in Hawaii.
Another way to locate green hotels in a particular city is to call their chamber of commerce and/or tourism departments. They can provide you with the latest lists of local green hotel options.