Green Fatigue

Every so often I experience what I call “green fatigue”.  As you may know we have been extolling the virtues of green hotelkeeping since the early 1990′s and exhorting our colleagues in the lodging industry to “green” their hotels as much as humanly possible.  This effort can wear a green guru out.

Asilomar

Recently, I made a trip that would test the commitment of even the most ardent ecovangelist. On Sunday I left STL for Monterey, Ca (MRY).  I enjoyed participating in the Aramark Parks & Destinations Environmental Stewards meeting held at one of the most beautiful places on Earth -Asilomar Conference Grounds - Sunday night through Dinner on Monday evening. That evening I took the red-eye (I know I swore them off years ago) from MRY via SFO to EWR(Newark).  I arrived not quite as fresh as an organically grown daisy and headed for my hotel.

Check-in was a breeze at approximately 8 AM ( that was a bit of a gamble on my part), took a shower and headed off for the AH & LA Environmental and Engineering Committee meeting at the LEED Silver certified headquarters office of Wyndham Hotels in Parsippany, NJ.  Faith Taylor, our host does a great job of chairing this committee and we had a full agenda.  Long time stalwarts and members of the committee Tedd Saunders, Dave Stipanuk and Pat Maher(he atttended via conference call) were among those in attendance.  I am always amazed and impressed with the new initiatives that these gentlemen and their fellow committee members bring forth for consideration.

The meeting continued(did anyone see me knod off a couple times?) and culminated in Dinner that evening.  Back at it on Wednesday morning and then into NYC carpooling with Tedd and Nancy Scanlon ( I played the taller than thou card and rode shotgun) in a borrowed Honda driven by Eric Ricaurte of Envirelation (www.Envirelation.com) – another young and inspiring ecopreneur unlike myself.

The Willard

Had another great meeting with the out-of-the-box Triple Bottom Line driven Hervé Houdré, he led the Sustainability charge at The Willard InterContinental (see our list of top 40 Green Hotels at www.GreenerHotels.com)   He is the Regional Director of Operations & General Manager for The InterContinental Barclay (www.icbarclay.com) and as a special guest he invited Dinda Elliott from Condé Nast Traveler® (www.condenastraveler.com) to our meeting.  You may enjoy following her blog regarding the “greening” of The Barclay -http://dotherightthing.truth.travel

After this meeting we headed to LGA for the trip home to STL feeling inspired again by all these ardent advocates even if we were a little  fatigued.

Green Hotelkeeping Can Be Habit Forming

Green Hotelkeeping Can Be Habit Forming

February 16, 2010

Hello. My Name is __________ and I am a Green Hotelier. I met Ms. Hema Patel, president of Courtesy Management this past year at the Hunter Hotel Investment Conference in Atlanta. She approached me after we concluded a panel discussion regarding sustainability in hospitality and said that her company was building a Holiday Inn & Suites in Columbia, South Carolina, and that she wanted it to be as sustainably constructed and operated as possible.

Questions About LEED

Questions About LEED

February 3, 2010

The Bardessono is now California’s first and only LEED Platinum hotel and only the second in the world. The other LEED Platinum hotel is The Proximity in Greensboro, North Carolina.This brings to mind some questions:

1) Why are there only two LEED Platinum hotels thus far?

2) Why are they smaller independent properties vs. larger branded hotels?

3) Which other “certification” programs are resonating with consumers (assuming any do)?

4) Are there any other LEED Platinum level hotel projects underway?

5) Are these hotels establishing a new standard for luxury hotels to follow?

Seaport Hotels Wins BOMA EcoRace Recycling Challenge

Seaport Hotels Wins BOMA EcoRace Recycling Challenge

January 4, 2010

Seaport Hotel Boston recently won the 2009 EcoRace Recycling Challenge for mixed-use buildings under 500,000 square feet, as well as the 2009 EcoRace Innovation Award for mixed-use multi-buildings from the Boston chapter of the Building Owners and Management Association.

A Cleansing Experience

A Cleansing Experience

December 21, 2009

Pet Rocks, Chia Pets, Beanie Babies and The Heavenly Bed. Every once in awhile an idea or product comes along which causes you to slap yourself in the forehead and say, “Why didn’t I think of that?”Well, in my opinion, you can add Clean The World to that list. I have to admit that when I first read of this idea which involves sending used hotel soap to Third World Countries, the “show-me” (I live in Missouri) surfaced in me. In these trying economic times how could this concept possibly survive much less thrive?

Green Your Holiday Lights

Green Your Holiday Lights

November 20, 2009

At any given time, I usually have about three or four entries for this blog in the queue. This morning a subject came to me that jumped to the top of the list: holiday lighting. Has anyone thought about “greening” their holiday lighting? I know I have seen some news reports about various cities switching to L.E.D. holiday lighting, but I don’t recall seeing any stories about hotels.

Green Hospitality Education Opportunities

Green Hospitality Education Opportunities

October 16, 2009

This fall several opportunities are available for Green Education. I would encourage you to attend one or more as your time and budget permits.

In Chronological order please see below:

C’s Of Green (Continued)

C’s Of Green (Continued)

September 30, 2009

When you have a consistent commitment to the green continuum it makes it easier to communicate – both internally and externally — when opportunities are presented.

Fairmont Hotels, inspired by documentarian Ken Burns’ latest PBS project “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea,” is launching nature-related packages and making charitable contributions along with them. The Great Green Getaway at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta, Canada, for instance, includes a US$100 credit for daily activities and US$25 donated in the guest’s name to the UNESCO World Heritage Alliance. A Green Adventure offered at Mexico’s Fairmont Mayakoba Riviera Maya includes an ecological tour of the area’s lagoons and a donation in the guest’s name to Adopt-a-Tree.

The Green Bar Has Just Been Raised

The Green Bar Has Just Been Raised

September 23, 2009

Yesterday, I went out to buy myself a birthday present and came back with both the gift and a copy of the September 28th edition of Newsweek.

It may prove to be a memorable errand.

On the very green cover of Newsweek: “The Greenest Big Companies in America- An exclusive ranking.”

I must admit that I opened the issue with some trepidation. Would I find any lodging companies in the rankings?

The answer,  a resounding YES! Congratulations to the following:

#34- Walt Disney
#42 –Marriott International
#46 – Starwood Hotels & Resorts
#81 – Wyndham Worldwide
#128 – Las Vegas Sands
#164 – MGM Mirage
#176- Wynn Resorts

The rankings are for the 500 largest U.S. companies, which explains why some lodging companies are missing.

I think this increases the importance of a substantial sustainabilty program in every lodging company (is that an understatement?).

You may also find this article of interest – “It Ain’t Easy Being Green” which I noticed when I went on the Newsweek Web site to get the link for the article regarding the rankings.

Have we just begun the journey? Certainly, some guests are paying attention to your motives and your message.

What do you think?

P.S. The present, you ask?  Answer: 60 feet, 6 inches by Bob Gibson and Reggie Jackson with Lonnie Wheeler.

Environmental Champion Mrs. Wilma Maples

Environmental Champion Mrs. Wilma Maples

September 3, 2009

During the past couple of decades it has been my privilege to meet some of people that I consider to be Environmental Champions. It has been a pleasure to talk briefly with Ray Anderson, Ed Begley, Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at different events and to see the passion in their eyes and to hear it in their voices.

I just added another name to my brief list of Champions: Mrs. Wilma Maples. The 86 year old proprietor of the Historic Gatlinburg Inn recently donated 104 acres of land in the United States to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is the largest land gift to the park in more than a decade.

The property is near Cove Mountain between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg in Tennessee. “The gift will provide greenspace and protect the scenic vistas, and give us additional opportunities for wildlife and plants,” Smokies Superintendent Dale Ditmanson said.

As a big fan of both this particular park and of our National Parks, in general, I could not resist picking up the phone and telling Mrs. Maples how much her gift means to those of us that appreciate conservation and our National Parks. In my opinion, she has created an outstanding example for the leaders of the lodging industry to follow. This gift is just one of her many gifts that will be form a lasting legacy of her commitment to preservation. She told me that she did not want to see the land sold and developed after she is gone.

On a separate note, PBS will begin airing Ken Burns’s ‘The National Parks: America’s Best Idea,’ a new six-part series about the history of the National Parks, on September 27.

I understand from our friend Susan Whitaker, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development that about 45 minutes will be devoted to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the most visited of all the National Parks and  is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.

Revisiting The Smoke-Free Option

Revisiting The Smoke-Free Option

August 7, 2009

I don’t think a lot of consumers have given much thought to whether a hotel that markets and/or positions itself as green should also be 100% non smoking, but they may in the future.

I do think it is fairly safe to say that more consumers are interested in staying at a 100% non-smoking hotel than at a green hotel, but both trends are continuing to strengthen. In the 2008 J.D. Power North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study, 89% of guests surveyed said they preferred staying in a smoke-free hotel environment. In the press release regarding the 2009 J.D. Power North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study, this trend was not mentioned. Did they stop surveying regarding this question because it is now almost a given?

In 2007, FreshStay listed 400-plus Choice Hotels, primarily Comfort Suites and Cambria Suites, as 100% non-smoking.  FresStau now feature over 1,250 Choice Hotel branded properties as members. FreshStay receives regular monthly updates from Hilton and Marriott and their numbers are growing quickly as well.

Comfort Suites continues its industry leadership today, also having been the first hotel company (in 1984) to include non-smoking rooms in every one of its worldwide properties.

An interesting study for a Master’s thesis would be the following? How many guests/consumers will not consider booking a room in a hotel that offers any (even less than 5%) smoking rooms? Also, how will your hotel or hotel company be perceived by prospective guests if you are one of the last hotels or hotel companies to embrace this trend? What will your guest satisfaction scores look like regarding cleanliness, which is closely aligned with odor? I suspect the answer is a very large percentage.

Why? Because you have not heard of hotels retracting or rescinding their 100% smoke-free policies, even in this difficult economy.

If you would like to follow me on Twitter it is @RayBurger.

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Guests Noticing Hotel Sustainability Efforts

Guests Noticing Hotel Sustainability Efforts

July 31, 2009

The J.D. Power  2009 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study has just been released and a couple of notable highlights include:

Guest awareness of property-initiated “green” programs has increased significantly in 2009, with 66% of guests stating that they were aware of their hotel’s conservation efforts, compared with 57% in 2008. Among these guests, 72% say they participated in their hotel’s conservation programs.

Awareness of “green” programs has a strong impact on overall hotel guest satisfaction. On average, satisfaction is more than 160 points higher among guests who report being aware of their hotel’s green programs, compared with guests who are unaware of them.

How should a hotelier interpret this information? I would suggest the following:

1. Out of the 66,000 guests surveyed, 66% said they were aware of the hotel’s program. So it seems to me that hotels are doing a good job, if not a very good job, of communicating that they have an environmental/conservation program. If you don’t have a program or you are not doing an effective job of communicating the program then “here’s your sign” – Bill Engvall.

2. Out of those 43,560 guests that said they were aware of the program 31,363. guests (72%) participated. My best guess is they participated in one or all of the following ways:

a. They turned off or turned down/up the lights, television and/or HVAC.

b. They took a shorter shower or turned off the water while shaving or brushing their teeth.

c. They either recycled something or tried to recycle something they consumed while in the guestroom (surveys say 60% of Americans recycle at home).

d. They participated in a linen and/or towel reuse program

e. They used greener facial and bathroom tissue

If you can think of other ways that guests may actively participate in a hotel environmental/conservation program please let us know. We are always interested.

Green Hotels In Unlikely Places

Green Hotels In Unlikely Places

July 13, 2009

Greener hotels are popping up in some places you may least expect to find them. We aren’t talking about college towns or left-leaning cities  Some of these hotels are in some of the most conservative parts of the United States.

Just this week, a newly constructed Comfort Inn & Suites in Augusta, Georgia, opened as the first “green” hotel in that city. In June,Elliott Lodging bought a Hampton Inn in Springfield, Missouri, and converted the property into its first GreenStay Hotel & Suites.

I spoke with Lee Futter, general manager of the GreenStay and he said initial reactions have been very positive. Well-heeled guests have even inquired about franchising. Futter, formerly the Hampton Inn general manager and a Missouri State University hotel school graduate, says the hotel meets and exceeds the AH&LA minimum environmental guidelines.

One of their first initiatives was the installation of dual flush commodes in every guest bathroom.  Futter says they have several additional initiatives such as guestroom energy management systems and biodegradable breakfast tableware that they expect to implement soon.

The owner of the Augusta Comfort Suites on Gordon Highway is T.R. Reddy, an India-born hotel developer and electrical engineer. He told The Augusta Chronicle that  there are six rows of pipes 200 feet underneath the hotel that constitute the geothermal cooling system. One set of solar panels on the roof of the overhang provide some electrical power. The rooms have low-flow faucets and energy-saving light fixtures. The front desk can control the energy usage of each room, as well, in case guests leave on lights when not in the hotel room. There are infrared sensors to sense whether people are in the room, Reddy said.

Reddy started a wholesale power control equipment company in Augusta in 1985, Powerline Inc., which designed and installed the lighting a power controls for the Jacksonville professional football stadium and the General Motors’ Saturn manufacturing facility in Tennessee. “The solar panels create 40% of daily requirements,” Reddy said of his new hotel. “Eventually, we may be approaching 60% to 70% power supplied ourselves.”

Though the green features added 25% to the cost of the Augusta Comfort Suites, Reddy said he feels the expense will be paid back through savings – and tax credits – over the next five years.

Having a green hotel is also a selling point to entice visitors, Reddy said. “Statistics prove that at least 20 percent more people visit green hotels,” he said.

I find it encouraging that hotel developers and managers are continuing to choose a greener road to travel. Is it because of the economic conditions or in spite of them? Whatever the reason, it’s refreshing to see the commitment to a more sustainable lodging industry even in what may seem to be unlikely places.

Read more stories on green hotelkeeping.

Every Opportunity Is A Green Opportunity

Every Opportunity Is A Green Opportunity

June 18, 2009

As it is my habit, I often look at upcoming conferences to see if there is an opportunity to push the green agenda.

I came across one that had the curious title of “Events and Sustainable Development.” I called  the organizer to suggest that as hotels probably hosted a majority of events  they might like to include a segment on the role of hotels. Their reply was “ most of our participants will be from the government and local municipalities and it really is not relevant.” I asked what involvement the hotel had with the event and found out “they will be supplying organic food and have set up an organic garden.” What a lost opportunity. Is this all the hotel does for the environment, for climate change?

I happened to know that this particular hotel had some wonderful programs. Somehow there was a disconnect.

There is so much information available for green meetings and hotels are in a great position to raise awareness and indeed raise the bar. The banquet and events department could market their green commitment as part of their services. Not only does this put the hotel in a good light, but it will give the participants an indication of what can be done by a public or private organization.

Make every opportunity a green opportunity.

Tweets From HITEC

Tweets From HITEC

June 15, 2009

It has been a few years since I have been to HITEC. This year seems as good as any to return. ( I am trying my best to single handily stimulate the economy and our Son is living in So. California this summer.)

Several sessions on the conference schedule that intrique me include the following:

MONDAY, June 22
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Building Digital Relationships
Ballroom DE

Learn the importance of adding digital relationships to your company’s strategies. At companies such as Travelocity, Kayak.com, La Quinta Hotels and Earthlink, discover what they are doing in creating, leading and implementing CRM strategies that leverage the digital world. Explore this extensive world with examples drawn from all types of online and offline companies. Discuss the latest techniques for e-marketing, the evolution of search, and how broadband is changing consumer behavior online. Walk away with a plan on how to craft a multi-channel strategy to deal with tomorrow’ marketplace.

Speaker: Terry Jones
Terry Jones founded Travelocity.com He led the company as President and Chief Executive Officer from it’s founding until May 2002. He also served as CIO of Sabre Inc. Prior to that, Jones joined America Airlines as Director of Product Development. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Earthlink, Inc., the La Quinta Corporation, as well as Kayak.com

Tuesday, June 23
8:30 AM – 9:45 AM
General Session: Useful Tech Weapons for Economic Battles
Ballroom DE

The worldwide economic downturn is on the forefront of everyone’s minds, and businesses across the globe are incorporating innovative methods to work towards financial recovery. The hospitality industry is no exception. Hear predictions from a panel of experienced CIOs representing large to small properties, discover ways they are addressing the state of the industry within their own companies and learn what they are doing to help stay ahead of the storm. Panelists explain how technology can be a safeguard in these times and is now necessary more than ever before. This interactive session divulges useful tips you can walk away with to help keep your business thriving in these uncertain times.

Speakers: Scott W. Anderson is president of the hospitality and real estate group for Kohler Co. Scot Campbell is senior vice president and CIO for MGM Mirage Inc. John Edwards is director of IT, North America for Millennium Hotels and Resorts. Chuck Marratt is director of IT for MTM Luxury Lodging. RP Rama, CHA, CHTP, CHAE, is vice president and director of IT and Telecom for JHM Hotels. Jeremy Ward is senior vice president of IT for Kempinski Hotels.

3:45 PM – 5:00 PM
Mobile Distribution- How Are Hotels Embracing This Challenge?
213CD

Analysts tout the arrival of mobile commerce, but has it arrived in the hospitality industry? How are your guests using the mobile channel today? A panel of hoteliers and hospitality distribution specialists discuss the challenges of implementation and explore the scope of mobile commerce. They will share best practices and talk about how they see the future of mobile technology impacting hotel distribution.

Speakers: Ric Leutwyler is chief marketing officer of Utell Hotels & Resorts. Valyn Perini is executive director of OpenTravel Alliance.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009
8:30 AM – 9:45 AM
Demystifying Distribution 2.0
210AB

This session analyzes the current information on the primary distribution landscape including GDS, OTAs, company websites, social networks, and emerging channels. Discuss some of the trends that are evolving in response to the economic climate for the distribution players as well as the travel suppliers who use them. Walk away with ideas on how to utilizie your distribution channels more effectively.

Speakers: Bill Carroll, Ph.D., is a senior lecturer at Cornell University School of Hotel Administration. David Atkins is a principal with Digital DNA Infusion. Dorothy Dowling is senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. Ashwin Kamlani is CEO of AboutAnywhere.com.

8:30 AM – 9:45 AM
Green Your IT
210CD

This interactive panel discussion illuminates the countless opportunities and challenges in implementing earth-friendly IT initiatives. Explore these three main areas: Green IT in the Guest Room, The Green Data Center, and Plugging Into The Grid. Analyze the costs and cost savings, the social responsibility impact, the revenue generation, and marketing potential of each green topic, sharing the practices and pitfalls experienced.

Speakers: Daniel Connolly, Ph.D., is an associate professor at the University of Denver. Mark Haley is a partner with The Prism Partnership, LLC. Quentin Incao is director of operations for MTM Luxury Lodging. Richard Rabinoff, CHTP, is director of hospitality technology for Xanterra Parks & Resorts.

As an added bonus for those of you unable to attend, I am going to get into the Social Media spirit and tweet from the sessions I choose to attend as well as provide any pertinent Green Technology updates from the tradeshow floor. You can follow me on twitter @Stillwater54.

The C’s of Green – Continued…

The C’s of Green – Continued…

June 5, 2009

Community, Collecting, Counting, Commitment and The Cardinals.

Below is a good example of how The St. Louis Cardinals baseball team is working with a community-based organization and a corporate partner to collect recyclables and  count the impact.

You may ask what are the Green Takeaways?

1)  Can you “team” up with your local major or minor league baseball team for a “green” team building event?

2)  Can you use the same methodology The Cardinals do for creating an effective recycling program at your hotel(s)?

3)   If you use the efforts of volunteers it sure is nice to offer something of value for their commitment of time and energy.

If you will be in St. Louis this summer, give me a call and we will commit to volunteering at a Cardinals game or in some other eco effort together.

Here is The Cardinals message:

You have received this message because you have expressed an interest in volunteering for the Ice Mountain Green Team! On March 31st 2008, the St. Louis Cardinals began a new era of recycling fan debris before, during and after the ballgames. All paper, aluminum and plastic products in and around Busch Stadium were collected and at the end of the season a total of 290 tons had been recycled. The goal this year is to collect around 400 tons and so far we are off to a great start! Between the months of February, April and May, 79.81 tons have been recycled which surpasses last year’s total at this time of only 49.16 tons. The entire Cardinals organization is committed to the “For a Greener Game” program and looks forward to a successful 2009 season.

The Cardinals are looking for friendly volunteers from local colleges, high schools, community organizations, church groups – even friends and families – to join the Ice Mountain Green Team and help collect recyclables from fans during every home game.  Only 30 volunteer spots are available for each game and the dates are filling up quickly. Please e-mail, call or register online with the dates of any home games that you are interested in helping with and we will check for availability. (All volunteers must sign up in advance). Now is your chance to join the Ice Mountain Green Team and help make a difference!

Green Restaurants

Green Restaurants

May 29, 2009

How exciting it was to see the green agenda at the National Restaurant Association’s annual show in Chicago recently. This is such a huge industry and it is so encouraging to see how the green movement is gaining momentum. I came across the following news release:

“There is often a perception that ‘going green’ is expensive and not realistic for everyone, but many of these practices can actually boost business,” said William C. Anton, FMP, convention chairman for the 2008 Show and chairman and founder of Anton Airfood Inc. “By taking even small steps and reaching for low-hanging fruit, restaurant operators can increase their efforts and in turn, their bottom lines. The 2009 NRA Show offers opportunities to learn how to implement environmentally responsible practices that also help conserve financial resources. In addition, these efforts can help drive customer traffic, as consumers increasingly make purchasing decisions based on eco-consciousness.”

After reading this news release I did a search on the Web and there is so much information available now to assist restaurants in their efforts. Hopefully hotel restaurants will start to access these sites, read the good stories and adopt some of the practices. Going green can be most advantageous to a restaurant because dining is often quite a considered decision and customers are becoming more environmentally conscious. Most restaurants already behave in a sustainable way with menu design, purchasing decisions, recycling and energy saving. They do this because of the effect it has on the bottom line. Perhaps it is now time to articulate these actions to see just how they fit with “going green.”You may be greener than you think and perhaps your customers would like to hear about that.

Liquid Gold

Liquid Gold

April 30, 2009

I recently watched a program on bottled water – a fad that seems to have gotten out of hand and is creating a massive pollution problem.

Bottled water now costs more than petrol. More is spent on bottled water than energy. The carbon footprint of bottled water is huge with the production of the bottles, the production of the water, the transportation of the water and, worst of all, the disposal of the plastic bottles. Do we really need it?

I am from a generation that did not have bottled water and I have to wonder why, with the purification systems available, do hoteliers need to perpetuate this practice. Of course, in some countries there is a safety factor but surely our hotels are capable of producing water clear enough and clean enough for people to drink. Thank goodness some hotels are now installing fountains, using refillable glass bottles and Scandic Hotels has committed to phasing out plastic bottles as a company.

The last straw for me came when the program said that a particular company was producing “children’s water,” “women’s water” and “pet’s water.” This is surely a fad that has gotten out of hand. For the sake of the environment we need to do something.

Being Green During A Recession

Being Green During A Recession

April 23, 2009

I am continually asked the question “do you think the economic crisis will have an effect on green initiatives.”

There are many things that can be done by an operation that do not involve a financial investment. The establishment of green teams is a way to inject excitement for green issues. No one knows the hotel better than the front line staff and they have lots of wonderful ideas. In larger hotels, having a green team from each operating department is more effective. In a smaller operation, a representative from each department, even if it is on a rotational basis, will get everyone involved.

I have found that when the general manager is the champion and meets with these teams on a monthly basis, the program is more effective. Front line staff need that back up.

Publicize the green  teams; give them space on the notice board; highlight their efforts in staff gatherings; recognize  the great ideas and the stars.

I am sure there are many hotels who have achieved success through their green teams. It would be good to hear some success stories, so please send them in. It is often said that when occupancy is low “consolidate and educate.” Now is the time to establish your green team.

Now Everybody’s Business

Now Everybody’s Business

April 1, 2009

I am pleased to be back on board with Eco-Speak, and after a considerable absence it is wonderful to see the changes in the world of hotels. Sustainability in the hotel industry has evolved to a stage where it is no longer regarded as a “nice to have “ – it is now “what we must do.”

I have attended four hotel investment conferences this year and the talk is about achievements and concrete examples. How much energy has been saved, new materials being used, new designs incorporated and new vice presidents of sustainability being appointed. It was extremely significant in Beijing where I was a panelist at a plenary session on sustainability. I was so surprised that at 9 a.m. on the last day there were so many people in the room. Very few left the session.

I do hope we have come to a stage where journalist will stop digging for the dirt and start showcasing great practices and achievements. I hope we have come to a stage where suppliers  will make it their business to provide a sustainable product to the hotel industry, where designers and architects will incorporate sustainable principles as a matter of course and not charge extra for doing so. As you have all heard me say before, we are all in this together. Sustainability is everybody’s business.

Earth Hour – Creative Community Commitment

Earth Hour – Creative Community Commitment

March 23, 2009

Hotels from coast to coast are getting involved to share concern about climate change.

View this as a warm up for Earth Day.

Saturday night, March 28, 2009, 8:30 p.m. local time, anywhere, USA.

World Wildlife Fund is asking individuals, businesses, governments and organizations around the world to turn off their lights for one hour – Earth Hour – to make a global statement of concern about climate change and to demonstrate commitment to finding solutions.

Already hundreds of icons and landmarks around the world have signed up to turn their lights off for Earth Hour 2009 including – the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Sydney Opera House, the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens and The London Eye, among many others.

Several hotels in Boston and at least one we know of in Minneapolis and Santa Monica are going to have fun and exhibit some creative commitment to conservation.

Boston Hotels

The Lenox Hotel will be turning off all unneccesarry exterior and interior lighting and asking guests to join the management and staff on the roof for a view of Boston as it goes dark. “Complimentary tea and coffee will be served,” says Elaine Strunk, director of green. I assume that the beverages will also be tax free.

Laura Mooney, who handles PR for The Colonnade Hotel wrote to say:

“Exterior lighting will be turned off and that interior public areas will be dimmed with use of flameless candles. The guests will be asked to turn off or dim room lights and that the outdoor color light tubes at the entrance will go from blue to green. The Brasserie JO Bar will feature special green martinis and the dining room lights will be dimmed and the tables will have flameless candles. Earth-friendly pocket bags will be provided to guests at registration.”

Jeff Hanulec, director of engineering at the Westin Copley Place told me, “we are doing a few fun things to promote earth hour.” These include:

• Letter in all guest rooms from GM asking for participation
• Earth Hour room keys for folks checking in this weekend
• Drink and menu specials thought the facility
• Kids’ pass-out buttons/ stickers in lobby
• Key staff in Earth Hour T-shirts

Minneapolis Hotel

Judith Kalfon, general manager of The Radisson Plaza Hotel, will join the anticipated one billion people worldwide participating in Earth Hour. The hotel will encourage their guests to participate by providing battery-operated candles and a card explaining the initiative in all the guestrooms. If all of the hotel guests support the initiative, about 3,800 light bulbs will be off during Earth Hour.

Down river in St. Louis, Missouri, we received this missive from StLouisGreen.com.

Please join StLouisGreen.com at the St. Louis Earth Hour Celebration at Busch Stadium

When: Saturday, March 28, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Redbird Club in Busch Stadium
How:  Purchase tickets at powerhourstl.com

Who should attend? Anyone who wants to help celebrate the efforts of St Louis becoming more green conscious.

Live music and cash bar

Sounds like fun!

If I owned or managed a hotel in downtown St. Louis I would be tempted to buy a block of tickets to this event and create an Earth Hour rooms package and then use Facebook and other social media to promote it as quickly as possible. Maybe each guest that turns off the lights from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. could be entered in a drawing for a free future room night.

Santa Monica Hotel

The Ambrose is inviting all of their guests to participate and they suggest taking a look at www.earthourus.org/video to see the WWF’s video on Earth Hour 2008.

For more information about Earth Hour visit www.Earthhourus.org

We are interested in receiving your stories and pictures about how your guests and communities react to Earth Hour, so please e-mail me.

Collect Information From Colleagues, Competitors

Collect Information From Colleagues, Competitors

March 16, 2009

“If you have an apple and I have an apple and we exchange these apples then you and I will still each have one apple. But if you have an idea and I have an idea and we exchange these ideas, then each of us will have two ideas.” – George Bernard Shaw

I just returned from the Inaugural South Florida Green, Energy, and Climate Conference & Expo and can assure you that Shaw was right!

When my friend and colleague, Bernadette Upton with EcoDecor suggested I participate as a panelist in this event, I was skeptical. I am glad she pushed me “out of my box.” The event attracted major sponsors, was well attended and the educational component was first rate. I met people with ideas, products, services and practical knowledge that made the trip well worth the time and effort.

Some of the highlights (and these are just a few) were hearing from Barry Caldwell, senior vice president of public affairs and communications at Waste Management regarding their latest innovative ideas. Visit www.ThinkGreen.com and www.greenopolis.com for more information.  Michael Singer, artist and principal designer with Michael Singer Studio, shared his work and thoughts with us. Who knew sustainability could be so creative and attractive. For more visit www.MichaelSinger.com.

And one of the highlights from our panel discussion was Rick Hawkins. His day job is director of materials management for The Breakers Palm Beach, but in his spare time he has created Local Ecopia. Rick reminded me how natural it is for hoteliers to extend care beyond buildings, guests and staff and into the community for the benefit of the local economy, the health of their guests and of the natural environment.

So, a tip of the cap to Jaene Miranda, Palms West Chamber of Commerce, her steering committee and corporate sponsors for organizing and conducting such a successful conference.

Green Creativity

Green Creativity

March 9, 2009

In our previous blog entry, we mentioned commitment as one of the C’s of Green.

While that is usually the beginning of the Continuum, to maintain and continue the journey, Creativity should follow close behind.

One of the opportunities for creativity and Community involvment (think globally, act locally) is right around the calendar corner.Earth Day will be Celebrated on April 22, and there is just enough time to get involved.
As an example of creative community involvement, I present Exhibit A: The Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, Maine holds a beach cleaning event every year for guests and the community. “It is a great family day and we remove piles of winter trash from Crescent Beach.” says Rauni Kew.

After the cleanup, parents and children are invited to an ice cream sundae party on the lawn, and children are given milkweed seeds to plant at home to support the endangered Monarch butterfly. The butterflies need milkweed to survive.

The Inn also plants two trees in support of the Earth Day Global Releaf campaign, whose goal is to replant 1 billion trees worldwide.The trees are usually named to recognize a guest, staff or community member.

If you like to collaborate, you may wish to reach out to your colleagues and community leaders for ideas. Another source for events that you may wish to support or become involved with is Earth Day Network.

Times Challenge Green Commitment

Times Challenge Green Commitment

March 2, 2009

These are the times that try men’s souls, said Thomas Paine. If not your souls at the least your commitment to socially and sustainably responsible hospitality.

Lately, I have been reading several articles about how Green is thriving or not thriving in this economy.  I’m not sure anyone really knows on a “macro” level. My guess is that every individual and every company has their own story.

While engaged in a consulting assignment a month or two ago I realized how many words that begin with “C” can be applied to sustainability: commitment, change, communication, creativity, consistency, community, control, compliance, comfort, convenience and competition came to mind. Today, let’s focus on commitment.

Recently, people have told me that they are either delaying or suspending their sustainability efforts. That makes about as much sense to me as people in the travel business asking consumers to travel more while cutting back on their own corporate travel and meeting expenditures.

If you were committed to sustainability prior to these economic times now is not the time to back away from the table. Because “green initiatives” require more critical thinking, you will be surprised at the positive outcomes you can achieve by adding a “green” filter to your decision making process.

If you are new to the “green” arena, welcome! You will find ways to positively impact your revenue, your costs, your guest satisfaction and staff retention.

Where does commitment within an organization come from? I subscribe to the theory that it can develop at just about any level, but that it can only be maintained consistently if the “top” leaders in the company walk it, live it and breathe it.

If your commitment to sustainable lodging practices is lacking look at the top of your organization.

Walt Disney
When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionably.

Denis Waitley
Losers make promises they often break. Winners make commitments they always keep.

John Wesley
Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.

Cecil B. DeMille
Most of us serve our ideals by fits and starts. The person who makes a success of living is one who sees his goal steadily and aims for it unswervingly. That’s dedication.

Dale Carnegie
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.

Theodore Roosevelt
Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

What Makes A Good Certification Program?

What Makes A Good Certification Program?

January 22, 2009

Even though I was born in Stillwater, Oklahoma, I have never staked a claim as a true “Sooner.” Over half of my life I have resided in the “Show-Me” state (Missouri) and it is with that attitude that I wish to open this discussion.

Missouri just became the 16th state (give or take) and counting to launch a green lodging program of some type.

Upon review, it seems to be well conceived, designed and easy to navigate. Greener hotels should have no difficulty clearing the first bar and exceeding the minimum requirement of 100 points.

Now for the “Show-Me” part of this discussion. After spending about 15 years in the business of “Greening Hospitality,” it seems logical to me that any certification program should feature the following three components:

1) A well-designed certification program with several areas that have a minimum baseline of performance required for participation, with additional levels of recognition for higher levels of commitment.

2) An audit function (at least a portion of the participants will have a physical inspection/review documenting their submissions to the program administrator).

3) An active marketing progam (on-going public relations, advertising, Web site, etc.).

In some off-the-record conversations I learned that while well intended by the outgoing governor of Missouri and support from various state agencies, there is no budget to visit/audit the properties that choose to participate nor is there a state-funded budget to market the program to consumers.

I am thrilled that Missouri has a program, I just don’t know that it will have the intended results due to time and budgetary constraints. Perhaps a stronger public/private partnership is required?

I understand that this is not an “isolated” situation with state green lodging programs, in general. In my opinion, state programs are a great place to start, but they may not result in a significant number of  “heads in beds.”

“In a very fundamental way, sustainability depends on long-term economic success. It’s the only way to fund whatever degree of environmental commitment a company chooses to make,” say Daniel Esty and Andrew Winston in “Green to Gold.”

What would you like to see in any type of green certification program?

A Model That Works

A Model That Works

January 22, 2009

My uncle, Larry Daniel, is an avid nature photographer and he sent this to me on January 20th. (Inauguration Day)

As you may know the Bald Eagle was almost extinct until legislation was enacted to eliminate the use of DDT.

It was a case where the existing model was not working for all stakeholders in our environment.

The model was changed and as far as I know we are all better off, especially the Bald Eagles, which have now recovered to over 10,000 mating pairs in North America.

As a hotelier, are you using DDT on any of your crops with any unintended consequences?

Looking For A New Source Of Business?

Looking For A New Source Of Business?

December 30, 2008

In this economy that may be a silly question, but the answers are not. One source that others are tapping is the green meetings market.

As an example, 30,000 attended the recent GreenBuild convention in Boston.

How do you tap into this source of business? As a member of the Green Meetings Industry Council I suggest you send a senior sales manager to the GMIC’s annual “Greening the Hospitality Industry Conference,” scheduled for February 24 – 26, 2009.

I attended the conference last year in Vancouver as a speaker and stayed for all of the educational sessions. This year, one session alone could be worth the cost of attending for hoteliers. Kimpton Hotels, Fairmont and Marriott all have green meeting packages and programs. Why not learn from those that have already blazed the trail?

Consider this session:

10:30a Concurrent Sessions: Hotels As Leaders of Sustainable Change
Within today’s economic crisis, how do hotel chains evaluate supporting a sustainable image? Is there continued ROI with going green or is this only a marketing tactic that fades when the economy takes a turn? Will the meeting organizer have to pay the price for hotels to go green?  Learn from leading hotel chains and meeting organizers why energy efficient strategies and a long term commitment to sustainability are not only cost effective but also critical to the future of the meetings industry. Presenters include Kimpton Hotels, Fairmont Hotels, Marriott International. The session will be moderated by Steve Faulstick, Portland Doubletree Lloyd Hotel.

I suspect some of you would say, “We did not budget for this.” You may also ask: How much business will result from a pursuit of this segment and/or how much will we lose if we don’t get started with this market segment?

Helpful Hint: Look at the companies that send representatives. Are any of these your customers? Could they be your customers?

Green Hotels & Smoking

Green Hotels & Smoking

December 5, 2008

Question: Should Green Hotels be 100% Non Smoking?

Answer: I don’t know, but we may be headed in that direction.

What do you think?

Keep in mind:

1) Non-smoking hotels have tripled in the last three years in the U.S. with AAA reporting that over 8,000 properties are now smoke free.

2) I recently listened while several hoteliers discussed how much business they would lose from smokers if they went 100% smoke free. They did not discuss how many of the 89% of guests that prefer a non-smoking room would not consider staying in a hotel that is not 100% smoke free.

3) If we consider that the trend toward better indoor air quality began when Holiday Inns mandated that 10% of all rooms be non-smoking in the early 1980’s, how long will it be before all hotels are 100% non smoking?

What will continue to drive the trend? Greenies, NGO’s, local, state or federal government, meeting planners or hoteliers that think it is a good business decision?

Do We Need To Leave The Light On?

Do We Need To Leave The Light On?

December 1, 2008

With apologies to Motel 6 and Tom Bodett I couldn’t resist their “catchy” trademark promise for the title of this blog post.

For the past few years, I have been scratching my head about the practice in some hotels to leave one, two or more lights on in vacant guestrooms promising a “warm welcome” to guests upon arrival.

Has any significant research been done to determine if guests think this is “warm,” too bright or not to bright?

What brought it to mind most recently was an e-mail I received from one my “greener” friends, P.J. Stafford – co-founder of Green Irene. His comment is below:

At a hotel in Washington, D.C., where I came to visit family, they have this GIANT certificate up on the counter where guests register about how they are GREEN and awarded this and that certificate… Then I go to our room and there are 15 lights on, along with the TV. It seems like they leave EVERY SINGLE light on all day so the guest feels welcome when they arrive at the room – and mostly incandescent too. Seems like a disconnect between the preachin’ and the practicin’.

As a consumer of about 40 room nights per year myself, I would prefer that hotels just use some L.E.D. technology or other method to show me where the light switch is located as I enter the room with the added benefit of it serving as path/night light for those middle of the night bathroom visits. This would save the kilowatt hours for a better purpose versus leaving the light(s) on when no one is home.

Please feel free to share any research or knowledge you may have to the contrary. I enjoy a healthy debate.

“We’ll leave the light on for you,” an ad-libbed line Bodett offered in the very first recording session, has become the trademark promise of one of the most long-lived and successful advertising campaigns in history. The winner of over 150 individual advertising awards – including eight Clios and Best National Radio Campaign an unprecedented two years in a row - the Motel 6 campaign with Tom Bodett continues in its effective service to keep Motel 6 the leader in economy lodging nationwide.

Bucket List

Bucket List

November 20, 2008

These past few months have been a blur of activity, some of which is due to an effort to cross some items off my Bucket List. A few of these are listed below:

* Drive Cross Country with our Daughter
* Visit the LEED-certified William J. Clinton Presidential Library
* Visit Santa Fe, New Mexico
* Attend a USC football game at The Coliseum
* Attend Eagles concert (my birthday present to myself)
* Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

* Take a fall walk with my wife in Central Park
* Install dual flush commode in our house

True confession, I have coveted a dual flush for quite some time. Recently, we decided to upgrade one of our bathrooms at home and I obtained approval from the Designer In Charge/General Contractor (my wife) after several debates to proceed.

The final authorization was approved after showing my wife an article in the local paper that our water rates are going up 26%. Additional icing on the cake was a conversation that I had with Yuan Chang of Gaia Hotels. He told me that they put dual flush commodes in The Gaia Anderson and the guests have responded very positively. When was the last time you had a guest comment positively about your toilet?

I am not a proponent of turning hotel guestrooms into science experiments, but I do think allowing the guest to make some greener choices during their stay positively reinforces their opinion of your green ethos.

When I picked up my dual flush I spent some time looking at one of my next Bucket List items – a tankless water heater. Imagine, as much hot water as you need while saving energy and water.  That would save buckets of water at our house.

I am interested in learning if other hotels are installing dual flush commodes or high-efficiency toilets using less than 1.6 GPF.  Please email me or comment on the blog.

Some other water conservation measures that you may find useful were recently sent to me by Ray Hobbs, senior vice president of Kelco Management & Development. With his permission they appear below:

Water Consumption:
o Separate meter installed for evaporative uses (irrigation, cooling tower, swimming pool)

o Use of low flow faucet aerators (1.5 gpm or less) in guest bathrooms and public restrooms

o Use of low flow shower heads (2.5 gpm or less) in all guest bathrooms

o Use of low flow toilets (1.6 gpf) in all guest bathrooms and public restrooms

o Linen & Towel reuse program implemented and executed for all guestrooms

o Kitchen does not use running water for defrosting frozen product

o Water towers and chillers have documented PM Program to insure proper operation

o Use of reclaimed water (rain water) for irrigation

o Irrigation system utilizes timer for night time operation with moisture sensor

o Use of xeri-scaping for hotel grounds (reduces water required for irrigation)

o All faucets checked for proper operation in back-of-house areas (no drips!)

o Washing machines and dishwashers are water efficient

o Washing machines and dishwashers operated with full loads

o Ice machines have documented PM Program and monthly inspections

o Housekeeping room attendants trained to report leaking faucets and running toilets

o Laundry associates trained on proper operation of washing machines (full loads)

o Maintenance associates trained on PM Programs for all equipment utilizing water

o Vendors utilized who practice water conservation measures (van wash)

o Vendors utilized who provide hotel with cleaning product that is not toxic to humans or aquatic life, is biodegradable, and will not contribute to ozone depletion

I Wonder…

I Wonder…

October 9, 2008

I wonder if Smith Travel Research has any numbers about how greener hotels are performing against their competitive set?

I wonder why the majority of hotel owners seem to think about the cost of green and not the public relations, human resource and enhanced property value benefits of green?

I wonder if the hospitality industry will seek green as a more cost effective way of doing business in this soft economy?

I wonder if any other hotel companies will feature “green” on their home pages besides Marriott International and Wyndham Hotels Group?

I wonder if consumers understand that some hotel companies place sustainability or green under Corporate Responsibility, Social Responsibility, About Us, or Programs on their Web sites?

I wonder why pioneers like Wen-I Chang, Dennis Quaintance, Deirdre Wallace, Walter Isenberg, Rauni Kew and many others “get it” and how they got there?

I wonder how many media impressions the Gaia Hotels and The Proximity Hotel will generate in 2008?

I wonder what the annual turnover rate is in greener hotels vs. other hotels?

Get Educated On Green Hospitality

Get Educated On Green Hospitality

October 8, 2008

As we noted in our last blog entry, the number of green hospitality educational opportunities are multiplying like pasture-raised rabbits. I would suggest you select at least one to attend so you can learn from some of the pioneers who have blazed the trail.

Here are a few options:

First LEED Platinum Hotel

Quaintance-Weaver Restaurants and Hotels announced that The Proximity Hotel and Print Works Bistro have been awarded LEED Platinum status by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED is the USGBC’s rating system for designing and constructing the world’s greenest, most energy efficient and high performing buildings. Opened in late 2007, The Proximity is the first hotel and Print Works is the first restaurant to obtain the USGBC’s top level of certification. Kudos to Dennis Quaintance and his team!

Officials from the USGBC will present the LEED Platinum plaque to The Proximity and Print Works at a ceremony at the hotel on November 10. That same day, The Proximity will hold its second Sustainable Practices Symposium, a three-hour class and tour full of information about the property’s design and building process using the LEED criteria. There is no charge for attendance, but advance registration is required.

New Hampshire Sustainablity Hospitality Conference

Looking for ways to save money and the environment? The New Hampshire Sustainable Lodging & Restaurant Program invites you to the Sustainable Hospitality Conference on Wednesday, November 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., hosted by the InnSeason Resort South Mountain& Village Shops in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

Featuring luncheon speaker Rauni Kew of Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
“Make Greening Your Property Fun and Effective”

Conference break-out sessions include:

· Energy Efficiency & Conservation
· Alternative Energy Options in New Hampshire & USDA Funding Opportunities
· Lodging & Restaurant Panels on Greening Issues
· Getting Sustainability Going at Your Property
· Green Meetings & Conferences
· Developing Local Partnerships
· Green Interiors
· Composting Solutions for Hospitality
· New Hampshire’s Environmental Leadership Initiative
· New Hampshire’s Changing Climate & What We Can Do Right Here
· Evaluating Your Carbon Footprint

The conference will include breakfast & lunch buffets and afternoon coffee. Registration fees are as follows:

Early bird discount (register by October 14)
NHLRA Members             US$50
Non-NHLRA Members      US$65

Standard registration (after October 14)
NHLRA Members             US$75
Non-NHLRA Members      US$90

Register to attend

Contact Michelle Veasey with questions.

The Florida Green Lodging Conference
“Being Green, Saving Green & Making Green”

Hilton University of Florida Conference Center
Gainesville, Florida
November 10-12

Lauren McCain
UF/TREEO Center
Tel: (352) 392-9570 ext. 212
Fax: (352) 392-6910

Conference Co-Chair Carol Hinton
University of Florida TREEO Center

Welcome hoteliers, hotel management companies, tourism officials and vendors

VisitGainesville and The University of Florida TREEO Center are excited to offer the inaugural Florida Green Lodging Conference at one of the first designated green hotels in the state, the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection is a leader in designating hotels as green with a goal-based program that tracks continuous improvement. With the terms “green” and “sustainable” being used every day to describe all kinds of consumer items and activities, visitors to Florida (more than 35 million annually) now have the opportunity to stay in hotels that employ environmentally friendly practices.

Whether you have a One Palm designation or you’re on the fast-growing applicant list to earn one, are you sure you are achieving green in the most cost and time efficient way?

Florida’s “going green” movement in the tourism industry exploded after Governor Crist mandated that all government offices/planners conduct meetings only at the designated Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Lodging Properties.

This conference will bring Florida’s hoteliers as well as tourism and environmental experts together to enlighten and inform the audience on going green, saving green and making green. Kick-start the steps to validate how and why investing in “going green” can ultimately generate room nights and revenue.

Learn leading-edge processes and procedures from successful designated green hoteliers and environmental experts.Receive the latest informational, educational, and promotional materials that support hoteliers and CVB staffs in conducting their own hard-hitting green hotel workshops. Talk one-on-one with hospitality experts on how to “go green.”

Green Reading, Events

Green Reading, Events

October 3, 2008

Every so often I find myself completely inundated and bombarded by messages from a wide variety of sources. In this case we will just use numbers to put them into a manageable format.

1) I am heartily recommending Hot, Flat and Crowded, Thomas L. Friedman’s new book (my daughter thinks I am a groupie) and hope America’s presidential and vice presidential candidates are reading it and taking notes. For those of you that are looking forward to the next upturn in economic conditions expect a few million Chinese and Indian middle class guests to visit your hotels.

2) In June I was privileged to hear Ray Anderson’s keynote speech at “Greening the Heartland.” Afterwards, he was kind enough to visit with me and we briefly discussed the increase in the number of green events and the growth of attendance at green events.

He mentioned that only a few dozen people showed up at the first GreenBuild event in 1995. This year attendance will probably top 30,000 in Boston. Before 2005 it was unusual to see any mention of ”green” at any lodging industry conference or convention. At last week’s Lodging Conference in Phoenix two different panel discussions tackled green and both were well attended, and judging by the questions and comments very well received. My guess is that green will be the dominant color of lodging events and lodging Media for the foreseeable future.

3) These two items caught my eye from a recent TripAdvisor press release:

* Thirty-four percent of U.S. respondents said they will visit an environmentally friendly hotel or resort in the coming year, up from 30% in 2008. Thirty-two percent of those surveyed said they will be more environmentally conscious in their travel decisions this year than they were the year before. Last year, 26% said they would be more environmentally conscious.

* Eighty-three percent of U.S. respondents are concerned about germs, bacteria and viruses when traveling. Airplanes are considered the most “germy” by 34% of respondents, followed by public transportation and hotels. Sixty percent of travelers surveyed said they wash and disinfect their hands more often while traveling than they ordinarily do.

4) I met John Scaggs at The Lodging Conference and have subsequently read his well written co-authored article that you should find interesting, called Green Is The New Gold, by John Scaggs and Gregory Hartmann.

5) I have been traveling to Las Vegas since the late 1970’s pre-Mirage era (yes… I was old enough). On a recent trip every time I turned around I heard a different language. Are international guests replacing the sub-prime mortgage holders?

6) “The True Definition of Green: Everyone wants to go green, but what exactly does it mean and how can we come to terms on how to set industry standards.” This is the title of the Opening Session for BITAC – West to be held at The Broadmoor on October 20. It promises to be a lively discussion. If you would like to contribute questions or suggestions please email me at ray@pineapplehospitality.net or just comment on the blog.

7) Another highlight on the green calendar of event takes place at the International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show, November 8-11 at the Javitz Center in New York City:

Eco-friendly Meets Eco-nomic, 11/10/2008, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., Room IE07

Abstract: Orbitz searches for it. RFPs are asking for it. Are you getting your fair market share from it? Going green has moved beyond a market differentiator to a mainstream requirement. While there is not one accepted definition for green, achieving a well-known certification eliminates greenwashing accusations and satisfies guest expectations before they reach your lobby. Learn more about reputable certification opportunities available to satisfy your consumers and your bottom line at this informative and action-oriented panel.

Speaker/Moderator Moderator: Pat Maher, partner, The Maher Group

Panelists: Kathleen Matthews, executive vice president, global communications and public relations, Marriott International; Faith Taylor, vice president, innovation and development, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts; Gus Newbury, vice president, engineering, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide; Carmen Baker, vice president of responsible business, Carlson Hotels Worldwide

We look forward to learning about the “reputable” certification opportunities.

What Goes Around Comes Around

What Goes Around Comes Around

September 18, 2008

While wandering recently in New England I was pleased to visit what could have been the predecessor to LEED certified hotels on the campus at the University of New Hampshire.  UNH was recently named one of the 11 Greenest Campuses by Princeton Review.

“In the heart of the University of New Hampshire campus in Durham, the New England Center is an architectural icon. Architect William Pereira, who graced the cover of TIME magazine in 1963, was so moved by the site’s 10-acre setting of towering pines and woodland he was inspired to create an extraordinary hotel that reflected the area’s natural beauty. Here, structural steel, green glazed bricks, and glass blend with nature to form a hexagonal-shaped architectural masterpiece.”

I remarked (thinking I was unique) to the Guest Service Representative the morning I departed that it felt like I was staying in a tree house. He said “we hear that a lot.”

If Mr. Pereira were creating hotels today he wouldn’t have far to travel to see a leading edge property in Lexington, Massachusetts. He might wonder why it took us 45 years to figure it out? The Element Hotel by Starwood is in a word “eco-comfortable.”

The extended stay property which expects to earn at least LEED Silver certification appears to be as comfortable as it is green. More than casual thought went into every aspect of this hotel concept. The location next to Minute Man National Historic Park is an additional bonus for Nature Walks, Bike rides, etc. If the number of tours (several daily) is any indication this brand will be a big hit for Starwood with guests, franchisees, and our planet.

If you are interested in knowing where all of this may be headed I would strongly encourage you to read an excellent article by Jim Butler entitled,The Compelling “Hard Case” For “Green” Hotel Development. Jim would be the first to admit that he is a “Johnny come lately to the Green Dance” and that is why his article is so compelling. He approaches the subject pragmatically.

If you have thoughts you would like to share with me in person please look me up next week (September 23 – 26) at The Lodging Conference in Phoenix.

Leading The “Ecolution”

Leading The “Ecolution”

August 27, 2008

On a recent trip to Boston and points beyond I had the privilege of attending a monthly meeting of the Boston Green Tourismorganization.

As a visitor to Boston I always spend some time thinking about how revolutionaries such as Samuel Adams, John Adams and Paul Revere thought our country would evolve. Would they be impressed?

I do think they would be impressed with the leadership and commitment to sustainability by some of the “ecolutionaries” that lead the green charge in Boston. Over the past several years I have become acquainted with Tedd Saunders, Dan Ruben, and Matt Moore. I am more familiar with their efforts, but there are multiple examples for lodging properties to follow in Boston (25 Energy Star hotels).

While Philadelphia may be the site of the Continental Congress and the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, not many historians would deny that Boston was the birthplace of the revolution.

That patriotic spirit and fortitude extends to the greening of hospitality. In the early 1990’s,long before it became fashionable, Tedd Saunders was diligently leading the Saunders Hotels toward sustainability. If there was a Green Hotelier Hall of Fame, Tedd would be among the first inducted. His efforts have been recogized with numerous awards from organizations around the world.

Dan Ruben, executive director and founding father of Boston Green Tourism, previously was in charge of “greening” the Democratic National Convention held in Boston in 2004. That event spurred his belief that all meetings and conventions could and should be more sustainable. This year, Boston will host eight green meetings and conventions. Two of those conventions, GreenBuild and the annual AIA convention, are projected to bring US$38.3 million worth of economic impact.

I don’t know if other cities or CVB’s track this information about the green meetings market but I suspect it they don’t now, they will in the near future.

Recently titled as the director of rooms and environmental programs, Matt Moore is constantly seeking new green initiatives that he can implement at the Seaport Hotel. He was initially drawn to green by a revenue opportunity presented by the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA) conference in 2005. Once that challenge was met, the group asked the hotel to do more the following year. Matt and his team were up to the challenge and he has become the principal architect of the Seaport Saves program. If I want to learn more about new technologies products, or services that are available in the marketplace, Matt is a go to guy. He is a frequent speaker about the initiatives that have brought economic and environmental benefits to the Seaport.

In the mid 1770’s Bostonians were leading and feeding the revolutionary spirit. Two hundred and forty years later these “ecolutionaries” and others like them carry the green torch. As Thomas Friedman wrote, “Green is the new red, white, and blue.”

We are always pleased to meet new “Ecolutionaries.” I will be in Phoenix in September for The Lodging Conference. If you are aware of “ecolutionaries” we can visit while in that city please advise.

Keeping Your Hotel Green, Part 2

Keeping Your Hotel Green, Part II

August 6, 2008

In my last blog post, I mentioned that each day we would take a look at another of three of the top five environmental actions that business travelers expect lodging facilities to be taking.

For today, let’s look at energy-efficient lighting.

Wal-Mart surpasses goal to sell 100 million compact fluorescent light bulbs three months early

Bentonville, Arkansas, Oct. 2, 2007 – Wal-Mart Stores Inc. today announced it has surpassed its goal to sell 100 million compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) by the end of 2007. Over the lifetime of the CFLs, Wal-Mart estimates that these energy-saving bulbs will have the effect of taking 700,000 cars off the road, or conserving the energy needed to power 450,000 single-family homes.

During my college years I avoided math as much as possible, but let’s give this a try.

The United States has about 300 million people, so according to this statistic, during a 10-month period, Wal-Mart sold 1 CFL for every 3 people in the United States, and those 3 people included children. In addition, Lowe’s, Target, Home Depot and many other retailers were selling CFLs at the same time.

Is there anybody left In America who doesn’t know about the energy efficiency benefits of CFLs?

U.S. Congress bans incandescent bulbs

In addition to raising auto fuel efficiency standards 40%, an energy bill recently passed by the U.S. Congress bans the incandescent light bulb by 2014.

President Bush signed the measure into law after it was sent up Pennsylvania Avenue in a Toyota Prius hybrid vehicle.

The phase-out of incandescent light is to begin with the 100-watt bulb in 2012 and end in 2014 with the 40-watt bulb.

All light bulbs must use 25% to 30% less energy by 2014. By 2020, bulbs must be 70% more efficient than they are today.

I understand that some luxury and boutique hotels do not think that CFLs are acceptable to their guests. But did Deloitte avoid luxury and boutique guests in the survey mentioned yesterday?

Something doesn’t add up.

Keeping Your Hotel Green

Keeping Your Hotel Green

August 4, 2008

Guest awareness of property-initiated green programs declined significantly in 2008, with 57% of guests stating they were aware that their hotel offered environmentally friendly conservation programs, compared with 63% in 2007, according to the recently released J.D. Power and Associates 2008 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study.

I don’t know if 6% is significant or not, but for the purposes of this discussion, let’s say that the trend is not going in a positive direction.

What could be the reasons for this decline in guest awareness of hotels’ conservation efforts?

Some of the answer(s) may be in a May 20 Deloitte survey, which finds that Business Travelers Go Green on the Road, Have Specific Expectations of Hotels. How does your hotel measure up in these areas?

The top five environmental actions business travelers expect lodging facilities to be taking are (in order):

• Recycling (77%)
• Using energy-efficient lighting (74%)
• Using energy-efficient windows (59%)
• Placing cards in rooms to let guests request that sheets/towels not be changed (52%)
• Using environmentally safe cleaning products (49%)

Each day for the next three days we’ll take a look at 3 of the top 5 (and probably the most obvious to guests) environmental actions that business travelers expect lodging facilities to be taking.

For today, let’s look at recycling.

Recycling Facts and Figures

• In 1999, recycling and composting activities prevented about 64 million tons of material from ending up in landfills and incinerators. Today, the United States recycles 32.5% of its waste, a rate that has almost doubled during the past 15 years.

• While recycling has grown in general, recycling of specific materials has grown even more drastically: 52% of all paper, 31% of all plastic soft drink bottles, 45% of all aluminum beer and soft drink cans, 63% of all steel packaging, and 67% of all major appliances are now recycled.

• 20 years ago, only one curbside recycling program existed in the United States. By 2006, about 8,660 curbside programs had sprouted up across the nation. As of 2005, about 500 materials recovery facilities had been established to process the collected materials.

Source: United States EPA

Most of what I have read over the past several years indicates that recycling is the most widely adopted environmental initiative consumers implement in their homes. Most studies conclude that more than 50% of all U.S. consumers recycle to some degree.

Hotels can improve their recycling efforts by either implementing an effective guestroom recycling program and/or by improving communication with guests about how the recyclables are managed by the hotel.

Perhaps a YouTube-style video of the hotel’s practices could be placed on the hotel Web site or as part of an environmental practices video as one of the in-house entertainment options.

The New Green Paradigm

The New Green Paradigm

July 28, 2008

For years, the foundations of environmentalism have been summed up in a tidy triumvirate: reduce, reuse, recycle. The three words were memorable, just right for posters and easy enough to apply. A few years ago, it seemed that changing the world required little more than getting our children to repeat these three magic words over and over again. Today, a new paradigm is required.

Business people, economists, futurists and environmentalists recognize that these now traditional tactics cannot sustain our society alone. As we harness the powers of innovation and inspiration to make progress, we need a new “recycling triangle” that works for ideas the way the old one works for cans.

Respect is the first step. Any person or organization hoping to make a green change must first anchor their thought process in respect. This means more than just respect for others and respect for nature. A healthy respect for reality is crucial anytime ideas are being “recycled.” A green business recognizes the realities of capitalism and applies them to its strategy. The environmentally friendly products and practices that catch on fastest are the ones that are simple, easy and save people money. The laws of economics stem from the laws of nature, and both systems can provide an effective green leader with guiding principles. Self-respect is equally worthy of focus when it comes to creating change. People are reliably self-motivated. Where “Save the Planet” and “Save Money” appeals fail, a “Save Yourself” approach is bound to work.

Second, we are required to Rethink. While we respect the things we cannot change we must be willing to rethink everything else. The new paradigm thrives on scientific analysis, uncurbed curiosity and a willingness to overturn convention. Business and organizations that take a second look at things have always prospered. As your green product or idea begins to take shape, you must constantly question and seek new perspectives on things. Rethinking is often done better by a creative team. The goal of this step of the process is to find the insight that leads to action. Once we understand reality, we are ready for the epiphany that can lead to global progress, higher profits and a healthy planet.

The third and sometimes most difficult R is Redesign. Making green ideas a reality will require new technologies, materials and skills. Scientists and engineers are leading the way when it comes to this R, but innovations and commitments from business people, political leaders, students and consumers are equally important. Fortunately green options abound regardless of what you are working on. Redesigning your home, your product or your entire company to be as green as it can be requires a thorough approach that couples big steps such as buying solar panels, with smaller ones such as fixing leaks.

Of course, the classic Rs are as good as ever. Unfortunately, the old Rs aren’t really the whole answer. Recycling, like so many of the solutions our society produces, treats the symptoms and ignores the problem. The new Rs allow us to be more sustainable from the outset, building the old ideas and the new innovations in at the beginning and seeing everything through to the end.