Green Hotels

Transportation, land development, and consumption associated with tourism -- now the number one industry in the world -- contribute to global warming, habitat destruction, and dislocation of native populations. One way to reduce your vacation's impact is by staying in sustainably designed and operated hotels, resorts, inns, and bed and breakfasts.

Note, however, that not all ecolodging is created alike. Some, like the Sheraton Rittenhouse Square Hotel in Philadelphia, Penn., and Habitat Suites in Austin, Texas, operate like most conventional hotels, but have furnishings, building materials, towels, and supplies made with low-VOC ingredients, organic or recycled materials, and sustainably harvested woods. Grounds and rooms are maintained with nontoxic cleaners and least-toxic pest control methods. Arbor House, a bed and breakfast in Madison, WI, has low-flow showers and toilets. Eco-resorts and ecolodges, on the other hand, usually incorporate native features and materials in building design and landscaping, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature. Many try to keep guest impact low: Molokai Ranch in Hawaii uses solar power and composting toilets, for example.

Some hotels provide cards, created by the Green Hotels Association (GHA), which let guests elect to reuse sheets and towels. GHA also helps over 200 hotels implement better water, energy and solid waste programs.

Fragile ecosystems fare better when hotels help the local economy through employment and support of area businesses, and join local populations in conservation efforts, says Jamie Sweeting, director of Conservation International's travel and leisure industry program. Staying at a farmhouse is another way to support local economies, keep farmers in business, and see the countryside.

Because no single standard exists for green hotels, it's important for consumers to question hoteliers about eco-friendly practices before reserving a room. And, after your stay, don't forget to make a note in hotel feedback forms about changes you'd like to see. "The more consumer questions about environmental issues hoteliers get, the more likely they'll change," Sweeting says.

Resources:

GHA, www.greenhotels.com, 713/789-8889

The Ecotourism Society, www.ecotourism.org, 802/447-2121

Green Travel, www.green-travel.com