In recent years, many people and companies in Minnesota have been making a conscious effort to go green. This green movement promotes using environmentally friendly, energy efficient services and products 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 considered 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 understand the importance of making choices that protect the environment.
Benefits of Choosing Minnesota Green Hotels
The most apparent benefit of picking a green hotel in Minnesota is that you are limiting your impact on the earth. Hotels make a lot of waste, use a lot of energy and put a lot of toxins into the environment. Going with a green hotel is one decision that makes a significant difference.
Beyond feeling good about helping the environment, you will also feel good physically when you choose a green hotel over traditional hotels. Minnesota green hotels do not use harmful cleaners that are full of toxins that can harm 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 advantages are significant. When the employees feel better it will lead to a better customer service which will make your stay that much more pleasant.
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 Minnesota Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are a variety of ways that green hotels in MN can make their business more eco-friendly. From the time 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 needs to 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
- 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, fragrances and harsh chemicals
- Linen cards
Where to Find Green Hotels in Minnesota
Many states, including Minnesota, 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 many organizations that recognize and accredit green hotels. These groups often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in Minnesota.
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 should have current lists of local green hotel options.