In the past few years, many people and companies in Indiana have been making a conscious attempt to go green. This green movement promotes using eco-friendly, energy efficient services and products and that's exactly what green hotels do. Lodging is one business sector where both businesses and people can work together to make the earth a cleaner, greener place.
Any sort of lodging can be deemed a green hotel, from B&Bs to motels to upscale luxury resorts. The thing they all have in common is that their owners, managers, employees and guests are aware of the importance of choosing to protect the environment.
Benefits of Choosing Indiana Green Hotels
The most obvious benefit of picking a green hotel in Indiana is that you are reducing your impact on the earth. Hotels create a lot of waste, use a lot of energy and put numerous toxins into the environment. Choosing a green hotel is one decision that makes a huge difference.
Beyond feeling good about helping the environment, you will also feel good physically when you choose a green hotel over traditional hotels. Indiana green hotels do not utilize harmful cleaners that are made of toxins that can harm your skin, sinuses and much more. The air is fresh and clean, free of cigarette smoke and aerosols.
For the employees who clean the rooms, work the front desk and walk the halls these health advantages are significant. When the employees feel good it will result in better customer service which will make your stay that much more pleasant.
Most importantly, green hotels support green vendors. This support helps green venders grow and expand their businesses enabling them to offer more people healthier options.
How Indiana Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are many ways that green hotels in IN can make their establishment more eco-friendly. From the moment you arrive using the complementary transportation service to the time you check out and end your stay just about every experience, product and service needs to be 'green'.
Water Conservation
- Low flow showerheads
- Low flow toilets
- Serving water upon request in restaurants
- Utilizing 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
- Installing motion sensored lights
- Florescent bulbs
- Linen cards
Reduction of Chemicals and Toxins
- Using organic gardening and pest services
- Using cleaners that exclude, dyes, fragrances and harsh chemicals
- Linen cards
Where to Find Green Hotels in Indiana
Many states, including Indiana, now have green lodging programs which are a great starting point for your search. These programs recognize hotels that have met state standards for providing what they think of as green lodging.
There are also many organizations that accredit and recognize green hotels. These organizations often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in Indiana.
Another way to find green hotels in a certain city is to call their chamber of commerce and/or tourism departments. They will have current lists of local green hotel options.