Today, hotels have almost unlimited options in ways that they could “go green.” Updating lighting fixtures with low-energy bulbs, replacing old faucets with models that conserve water, and switching to all-natural cleaning solutions are all common first steps for many properties. But some hoteliers are looking to do more to differentiate their properties as more green than the rest. Here are less common ways hotels can conserve energy and make their properties more eco-friendly.
Get Blown Away
Wind power is the fastest growing energy industry in the United States, according to the American Wind Energy Association. Though the upfront cost of installing wind turbines can be high, so is the return on the investment. Depending on the size of the property and the wind system installed, enough energy can be generated to not only significantly cut the amount of fossil fuels a property is using, but also lower electric bills by 50 to 90 percent.
Soak up the Sun
Solar power is one of the most eco-friendly energies. Sunlight is a free, unlimited resource, and solar power doesn’t result in carbon emissions—it runs totally clean. This route may be the best for hotels looking to reduce their carbon footprint without putting much money down up front. By taking into account state and federal incentives for green energy, solar panel installation costs can be significantly reduced.
Don’t Toss It
While most hotels recycle in some capacity, implementing a large-scale recycling program can make a significant impact on the amount of waste a property generates. Extended Stay America is in the midst of a brand-wide renovation project, which includes the implementation of a comprehensive recycling program. To date, the program has diverted 25 million cubic feet of materials from landfills. They have also recycled more than 437,4000 cubic feet of cardboard.
