In the past few years, many individuals and businesses in Michigan have been making a conscious effort to go green. This green movement promotes using eco-friendly, energy efficient services and products and that is precisely what green hotels do. Lodging is one industry where both businesses and individuals can work together to make the world 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 making choices that protect the environment.
Benefits of Choosing Michigan Green Hotels
The most evident benefit of picking a green hotel in Michigan is that you're limiting your impact on the earth. Hotels make a lot of waste, use a lot of energy and put numerous toxins into the environment. Choosing a green hotel is one decision that can make a significant difference.
Beyond feeling good about improving the environment, you'll also feel good physically when you choose a green hotel over regular hotels. Michigan green hotels don't employ harmful cleaners that are full of toxins that can aggravate your skin, sinuses and much more. The air is clean and fresh, free of aerosols and cigarette smoke.
For the workers 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 makes 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 provide more people healthier options.
How Michigan Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are a variety of ways that green hotels in MI can make their establishment more eco-friendly. From the moment you get to the hotel using the complementary shuttle service to the time you check out and end your stay basically every experience, product and service should be 'green'.
Water Conservation
- Low flow showerheads
- Low flow toilets
- Serving water on request in restaurants
- Employing sprinklers at optimal points in 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 pest and gardening services
- Using cleaners that exclude, dyes, fragrances and harsh chemicals
- Linen cards
Where to Find Green Hotels in Michigan
Many states, including Michigan, 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 consider to be green lodging.
There are also a number of organizations that accredit and recognize green hotels. These groups often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in Michigan.
Another way to locate 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.