
Businesses, consumers and the news media continue to throw around the terms "green building", "eco-friendly" and "green initiatives," but what do they mean and how do and/or will they affect the hospitality industry? Contrary to some naysayers, the green movement is not going away. Therefore, hospitality companies need to implement green initiatives now to keep pace with the competition. The hospitality industry has a unique opportunity to reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with guest rooms, event spaces and their general facilities through measures such as water and energy efficiency, waste management and reduction and local purchasing. As hospitality companies grow, build and expand they should also consider pursuing LEED certification. Green initiatives do not have to be costly and the hospitality industry is likely to realize a measureable return on their investment, whether in the form of energy savings or increased popularity with green conscious consumers. READ MORE