In the past few years, many people and businesses in Maine have been making a conscious effort to go green. This green movement promotes using eco-friendly, energy efficient services and products and that's precisely what green hotels do. Lodging is one industry where both businesses and individuals can work together to make the earth a cleaner, greener place.
Any kind 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 making choices that protect the environment.
Benefits of Choosing Maine Green Hotels
The most apparent benefit of selecting a green hotel in Maine is that you will be limiting your impact on the earth. Hotels create a lot of waste, use excessive energy and put numerous toxins into the environment. Choosing a green hotel is one decision that makes a big difference.
Beyond feeling good about helping the environment, you will also feel good physically when you pick a green hotel over regular hotels. Maine green hotels do not utilize harsh cleaners that are full of toxins that can irritate your skin, sinuses and much more. The air is clean and fresh, free of cigarette smoke and aerosols.
For the workers who clean the rooms, work the front desk and walk the halls these health benefits are significant. When the employees feel good it will lead to a better customer service which makes 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 supply more people healthier options.
How Maine Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are a variety of ways that green hotels in ME can make their business more eco-friendly. From the time you get there using the complementary shuttle service to the time you check out and end your stay just about every experience, product and service should be 'green'.
Water Conservation
- Low flow showerheads
- Low flow toilets
- Serving water upon request in restaurants
- Employing sprinklers at optimal points in the day
- Linen cards that allow guests to use sheets more than once
Energy Conservation
- Putting in ceiling fans in rooms
- Installing motion sensored lights
- Florescent bulbs
- Linen cards
Reduction of Toxins and Chemicals
- Using organic gardening and pest services
- Using cleaners that exclude, dyes, harsh chemicals and fragrances
- Linen cards
Where to Find Green Hotels in Maine
Many states, including Maine, now have green lodging programs which are a great place to begin your search. These programs recognize hotels that have met state standards for providing what they think of as green lodging.
There are also numerous organizations that recognize and accredit green hotels. These groups often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in Maine.
Another way to locate green hotels in a specific city is to get in touch with their chamber of commerce and/or tourism departments. They can provide you with the latest lists of local green hotel options.