In recent years, many individuals and businesses in Tennessee 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 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 understand the importance of making choices that protect the environment.
Benefits of Choosing Tennessee Green Hotels
The most evident benefit of choosing a green hotel in Tennessee is that you are reducing your impact on the earth. Hotels produce a lot of garbage, use excessive energy and put a lot of toxins into the environment. Choosing a green hotel is one decision that can make a significant difference.
In addition to feeling good about enhancing the environment, you will also feel good physically when you choose a green hotel over traditional hotels. Tennessee green hotels don't use harmful cleaners that include toxins that can harm your skin, sinuses and much more. The air is fresh and clean, free of aerosols and cigarette smoke.
For the employees who clean the rooms, work the front desk and walk the halls these health benefits are significant. When the employees feel better it will result in better customer service which makes 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 supply more people healthier options.
How Tennessee Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are a variety of ways that green hotels in TN can make their establishment 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 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
- 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 Tennessee
Many states, including Tennessee, 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 numerous organizations that recognize and accredit green hotels. These groups often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in Tennessee.
Another way to find green hotels in a specific city is to get in touch with their chamber of commerce and/or tourism departments. They will have up-to-date lists of local green hotel options.