1.       Make the Commitment

It’s important that hotel leaders understand the impact that a hospitality operation has on the environment and recognize the need to conduct business responsibly. Knowing the issues will help you solidify your commitment, and will provide you with the motivation to press on when the going gets tough.

2.       Select your Green Team & Appoint a Green Champion

You can’t do it alone – you will need the support of a team. Every aspect of the operation is involved, so select a representative from each department. And, realize that an inspired champion of the cause is the key to keeping your efforts focused and on task. 

3.       Establish Your Benchmarks

Begin by calculating your current waste, energy and water usage. Use the Energy Star Portfolio Manager if possible. Or, you can simply enter your metrics onto a spreadsheet that you will update monthly. The key is to establish a starting point to help you set targets and measure your success. 

4.       Choose a Standard

Selecting a third-party certifier is crucial for 2 very important reasons: 

a.       It provides industry specific criteria and guidance to help you establish your program

b.      It provides credibility to all of your stakeholders

There are several green hotel programs to choose from, with a varying range of costs and requirements. Be sure to evaluate the pros and cons of each one to be sure you are aligning your hotel with a certifier that will allow you to achieve your goals. 

5.       Create Your Action Plan

Using the standards of the certifier, write a task list that involves each member of your Green Team.  Put the plan in writing and establish a timeline for completion of tasks assigned. 

6.       Execute the Plan

This is the most important part. This is where good intentions are transformed into great results. Every person with an assigned task MUST be held accountable to complete it. Execution is everything!

7.       Document Your Initiatives

Put it all in writing. This is the way to truly institutionalize your green practices. Written programs provide a reference for all employees – it’s like a compass or a roadmap. 

8.       Train Your Team

All employees need to know the hotel’s goals to be green certified, and how each one of them plays a role in making that happen. A hotel cannot be green without the staff’s participation. 

9.       Measure Your Progress

Regularly monitor your achievements by updating your utility and waste reports. Hold regularly green team meetings and keep everyone informed on the progress of your goals. 

10.   Evaluate, Improve, Celebrate

Remember that sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Some initiatives may take longer to implement than others, but don’t give up. Continue to evaluate what is working and how you can improve. And, most importantly, celebrate your achievements as a team.

You Can Do This!

Julie A. Baylor, CHA, LEED GA, www.juliebaylor.com