In the past few years, many individuals and businesses in New York have been making a conscious attempt to go green. This green movement promotes using eco-friendly, energy efficient products and services and that is precisely what green hotels do. Lodging is one business 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 one 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 New York Green Hotels
The most obvious benefit of selecting a green hotel in New York is that you are limiting your impact on the earth. Hotels create a lot of waste, use excessive energy and put a lot of toxins into the environment. Going with a green hotel is one decision that makes a huge difference.
In addition to feeling good about helping the environment, you'll also feel good physically when you pick a green hotel over standard hotels. New York green hotels do not use harmful cleaners that are made of toxins that can irritate your skin, sinuses and more. The air is clean and fresh, 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 enjoyable.
Most importantly, green hotels support green vendors. This support helps green venders expand and grow their businesses enabling them to offer more people healthier options.
How New York Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are a variety of ways that green hotels in NY 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 basically every experience, product and service needs to be 'green'.
Water Conservation
- Low flow showerheads
- Low flow toilets
- Serving water on request in restaurants
- Utilizing 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
- Using 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 New York
Many states, including New York, 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 think of as green lodging.
There are also numerous organizations that accredit and recognize green hotels. These groups often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in New York.
Another way to find green hotels in a specific city is to contact their chamber of commerce and/or tourism departments. They should have the latest lists of local green hotel options.