In recent years, many people and businesses in South Carolina 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 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 are aware of the importance of making choices that protect the environment.
Benefits of Choosing South Carolina Green Hotels
The most obvious benefit of choosing a green hotel in South Carolina is that you're reducing your impact on the earth. Hotels create a lot of garbage, use excessive energy and put a lot of toxins into the environment. Selecting a green hotel is one decision that can make a significant difference.
Beyond feeling good about enhancing the environment, you'll also feel good physically when you choose a green hotel over regular hotels. South Carolina green hotels do not employ harmful cleaners that include toxins that can irritate 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 benefits are significant. When the employees feel better it will lead to a better customer service which will make your stay that much more enjoyable.
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 South Carolina Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are plenty of ways that green hotels in SC can make their business more eco-friendly. As soon as you get to the hotel 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 on request in restaurants
- Using sprinklers at optimal points during 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 pest and gardening services
- Using cleaners that exclude, dyes, harsh chemicals and fragrances
- Linen cards
Where to Find Green Hotels in South Carolina
Many states, including South Carolina, 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 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 South Carolina.
Another way to find green hotels in a specific city is to call their chamber of commerce and/or tourism departments. They should have the latest lists of local green hotel options.