In the past few years, many individuals and businesses in West Virginia 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 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 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 West Virginia Green Hotels
The most obvious benefit of picking a green hotel in West Virginia is that you're limiting your impact on the earth. Hotels make a lot of garbage, use a lot of energy and put a lot of toxins into the environment. Selecting a green hotel is one decision that makes a huge difference.
Beyond feeling good about helping the environment, you'll also feel good physically when you pick a green hotel over regular hotels. West Virginia green hotels do not use harmful cleaners that are full 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 benefits 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 offer more people healthier options.
How West Virginia Green Hotels Help the Environment
There are many ways that green hotels in WV can make their business more eco-friendly. From the time you arrive using the complementary shuttle 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 upon request in restaurants
- Using 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 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 West Virginia
Many states, including West Virginia, 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 recognize and accredit green hotels. These groups often have green hotel directories that help consumers find eco-friendly lodging options in West Virginia.
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.