The hospitality industry is facing pressure from consumers in addition to new regulations and governing sustainability practices.

Several studies have indicated that economic benefits can be gained in hotels through implementing environmental and social initiatives; several with little or no capital. In addition to cost benefits—the obvious advantage—there are also benefits to choosing an environmentally sustainable plan for your hotel.

Companies that promote a healthier workplace report a 20 percent decrease in the number of sick days used by employees. By implementing sustainability practices at your hotel, you are improving your chances of gaining an advantage over competing hotels, lodges, and motels. Consumers and other businesses recognize green hotels as a leader in the sector and respond accordingly.

Certifications such as LEED define the language and benchmarks of the hotel industry. Such awards generate reason for innovation, and provide consumers with a clear metric of sustainable achievement. Most states and even some local governments have tax breaks for hotels that go green. For instance, the state of Oregon has a Business Energy Tax Credit for companies that invest in renewable resources and energy conservation. Certifications such as LEED define the language and benchmarks of the hotel industry. Such awards generate reason for innovation, and provide consumers with a clear metric of sustainable achievement. Most states and even some local governments have tax breaks for hotels that go green. For instance, the state of Oregon has a Business Energy Tax Credit for companies that invest in renewable resources and energy conservation.

Hotels that implement sustainability practices into their facility position themselves favorably for future investments, lessening economic vulnerabilities. United States spend over $7.5 billion on energy each year, which is equivalent to the net worth of 12 Queens of England. In addition, hotels use 84.7 billion kWh/yr, which is enough energy to power 64.5 million TVs. If the industry were to reduce energy consumption by 10% it would save 8.47 billion kWh/yr, which is enough energy to power Washington D.C. for over 1-year.

The Future of Hotels is Green. To become a green hotel you need to first gain insight, so you can evaluate and determine which sustainable practices your business should implement. Plug In Manufacturing, Inc. understands both your industry and individual needs. Changes to your hotel’s processes and equipment can be simple and inexpensive, while others can be complicated and costly. Upgrades can be as simple as installing low-flow toilets, painting rooms with low emission paints and sealants, or working towards encouraging guests to reuse linens and towels.

 Unplug appliances, (blow- dryer, coffee maker, etc.). Appliances drain energy even when they aren’t on.  Pack your own toiletries.  Take shorter showers. The average US shower head releases 2.5 gallons/minute. A 10-minute shower would provide an elephant with its daily fill of water.  Adjust the thermostat. raising or lowering the temperature just a couple degrees has a significant impact.  Opt out of housekeeping. Leave the “Do Not Disturb” sign; the average hotel can save the water equivalent of 30 hot tubs per month with a linen & towel reuse program.  Speak up! Provide feedback to hotel management on their Eco-friendly policies  Speak up! Provide feedback to hotel management on their Eco-friendly policies.