Best References: Hospitality (Hotels)

The hospitality industry is a very competitive and image-driven business. To attract clientele and reduce costs, the hospitality industry is moving toward a more "environmentally conscious" or "green" image. This section provides core reference material that hospitality managers and other interested individuals can use to promote energy and water efficiency and to reduce waste generation. (photo courtesy of Sheraton Imperial, RTP, N.C.)
Date Last Updated: 11/19/2007

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Case Studies | Fact Sheets | Articles and Reports | Manuals | Web sites | Online Presentations |

Case Studies |

Section Title: Hotels and Restaurants # 14 - Environmental Good Practice in Habitat Suites Hotel in Austin: United States
URL: /10/09194.htm
Date: 1991
Full Work Author: UNEP IE
Section Author: UNEP/International Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA)
Abstract: The Habitat Suites Hotel in Austin, Texas, United States has gained a reputation as a "safe haven from toxic chemicals and environmental ills that travelers must endure in ordinary hotels".

Section Title: Warwick Hotel
Full Title: Business and Industry Recycling Venture
URL: /03/02948.pdf
Length: 1 page
Full Work Author: Washington Department of Ecology
Abstract: This hotel/banquet facility/restauarant reduced disposal costs by 37%.

Section Title: Westin Hotel
Full Title: Business and Industry Recycling Venture
URL: /03/02127.pdf
Length: 1 page
Full Work Author: Washington Department of Ecology
Abstract: This hotel and banquet facility saved $30,000 per year on disposal savings and recycling revenue. Unserved food is donated to charity.

Section Title: Grove Park Inn Resort
Full Title: Case Studies - A compilation of successful waste reduction projects implemented by NC businesses
URL: /01/0056628.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Date: December 1995
Full Work Author: NC Office of Waste Reduction

Full Title: Case Study: Grove Park Inn Resort
URL: /07/06160.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Full Work Author: NC DPPEA
Abstract: The Grove Park Inn is a resort complex in Asheville. The Inn adopted several strategies to reduce the waste generated on site, including reuse of many office and packaging materials, energy conservation through automated light switches and low-wattage bulbs, composting of yard waste, an Integrated Pest Management system to reduce pesticide use, donation of bedding and food to charity, and recycling and reuse. The facility also makes an effort to buy recycled-content materials. Waste reduction and cost savings are included.

Full Title: Energy Efficiency Case Study - Canadian Pacific Hotels: Hospitality, Tradition and Good Environmental Stewardship
URL: /19/18828.pdf
Length: 6 pages
Date: 4/97
Full Work Author: Natural Resources Canada, Office of Energy Efficiency
Abstract: Canadian Pacific Hotels: Energy Innovations

Section Title: Hotel and Restaurants #13 - Environmental Good Practice in Hotels: United Kingdom
Full Title: Environment Good Practice in Hotels: Case Studies from the IHRA Environmental Award
URL: /10/09472.htm
Date: 1994
Full Work Author: Aston, Ian; International Hotel & Restaurant Association; United Nations Environment Program

Section Title: Environmental Good Practice in Hotel Inter-Continental Miami: United States
Full Title: Environmental Good Practice in Hotels: Case Studies from the IHRA Environmental Award
URL: /09/08860.htm
Date: 1997
Abstract: Case Study - The Hotel Inter-Continental Miami is a 34-storey property located in the heart of Miami, Florida's financial and commercial district (United States). With its 664 rooms, 240 of which are designated as non-smoking rooms, 33 suites, 5 restaurants and over 61,000 ft2 of meeting and banqueting space, the hotel caters to business executives, conventions and leisure travelers.

Section Title: Environmental Good Practice in Welcomgroup Maurya Sheraton Hotel: India
Full Title: Environmental Good Practice in Hotels: Case Studies from the IHRA Environmental Award
URL: /09/08868.htm
Date: 1997
Abstract: Case Study - The Welcomgroup Maurya Sheraton Hotel and Towers in New Delhi operates 440 guest rooms, 7 restaurants and 8 conference rooms. "Welcomenviron" is the name of the environmental awareness Program implemented in Welcomgroup (no-hospitality) subsidiaries and serves as the basis of the hotel's Environmental Program.

Section Title: Environmentally Responsible Hotel Rooms
Full Title: Green Lights & Energy Star Update
URL: /28/27012.pdf
Length: 1 page
Date: June 1995
Abstract: This article describes ITT Sheraton Key West's Enviro-Rooms which use energy efficient lighting, water conserving fixtures, occupancy sensors for bathroom lights and fans, and efficient air conditioners. Enviro-rooms is a program of the University of Florida's Energy Extension Service. The efficient technologies appear to be 'transparent to guests'.

Full Title: Land Quality - Hotels/Motels
URL: /20/19965.htm
Date: 7/99
Full Work Author: Oregon Department of Environmental Quality

Full Title: Pollution Prevention Pays! - Hilton Montreal Bonaventure Hotel: Water and Energy Conservation/Hospitality & Hotels
URL: /22/21859.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Full Work Author: Environment Canada

Full Title: Red Lion: "Greener" Ways to Whiter Laundry - Red Lion: Greener Ways to Whiter Laundry
URL: /26/25337.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Full Work Author: City of Portland Office for Sustainable Development
Abstract: Red Lions Hotels installed pump closed loop system with three phase microfilter for water recycling. This allows for total closed loop water usage for laundry actities at considerable cost savings.

Full Title: Small Business Waste Reduction Case Studies - Case Study #1: Hospitality Industry - Food and Beverage Services (Thunderbird Hotel/Totem Pole Restaurant)
URL: /18/17714.pdf
Length: 2 pages

Full Title: Small Business Waste Reduction Case Studies - Case Study #2: Hospitality Industry - Food and Beverage Services (Mel's Corner Tap)
URL: /18/17715.pdf
Length: 1 page

Full Title: Small Business Waste Reduction Case Studies - Case Study #2: Hospitality Industry - Food and Beverage Services (Pandl's in Bayside)
URL: /18/17716.pdf
Length: 2 pages

Full Title: Waste Reduction and Recycling - A Report on the Wyndham Anatole Hotel
URL: /03/02136.htm
Length: 154 pages
Date: January 1998
Full Work Author: The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission
Abstract: This report tells management which hotel practices are effective and recommends others that are economically and environmentally sound.

Fact Sheets |

Full Title: 1995 Governor's Award Recipients
URL: /23/22752.htm
Date: 1995
Full Work Author: Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Conservation, Environmental Assistance Division
Abstract: 1995 Governor's Award Recipients

Full Title: A Fact Sheet for Managing Food Materials
URL: /03/02792.pdf
Length: 5 pages
Date: October 1999
Full Work Author: North Carolina Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance
Abstract: Managing food waste in the hospitality industry.

Full Title: Greener Accommodations Saving Money and the Environment
URL: /32/31128.pdf
Length: 9 pages
Full Work Author: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
Abstract: Saving Money and the Environment

Full Title: Hotel/Motel Waste Reduction - Executive Office - Purchasing
URL: /07/06529.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Date: 8/01
Full Work Author: NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance
Abstract: Hotel/Motel waste reduction executive office purchasing program.

Full Title: Hotel/Motel Waste Reduction - Facilities Management
URL: /14/13910.pdf
Length: 3 pages
Date: 7/01
Full Work Author: NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance

Full Title: Hotel/Motel Waste Reduction - Guest Rooms/Housekeeping
URL: /01/00356.pdf
Length: 3 pages
Date: 9/01
Full Work Author: NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance

Full Title: Hotel/Motel Waste Reduction - Planning for an Ecological Property
URL: /01/00421.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Date: 9/01
Full Work Author: NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance
Abstract: This waste reduction fact sheet is one of a series that assist the lodging industry in reducing waste and realize cost savings and an improved public image. The focus here is on the key elements of a successful environmental program. The Washington Duke Inn, Durham, NC, is featured as a case study.

Full Title: Hotel/Motel Waste Reduction - The Many Returns of Recycling
URL: /01/00420.pdf
Length: 4 pages
Date: 9/01
Full Work Author: NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance

Full Title: Make Waste an Unwelcome Guest: The NYC Guide to Hotel Waste Prevention
URL: /05/04499.pdf
Length: 10 pages

Full Title: Recycling Works Tip Sheet - Hotels and Motels
URL: /09/08234.htm
Full Work Author: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
Abstract: Pennsylvania hotel recycling fact sheet.

Full Title: The Tourism and Hospitality Industry Goes Green
URL: /03/02592.pdf
Length: 4 pages
Date: March 1998
Full Work Author: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Environmental Protection
Abstract: This fact sheet about pollution prevention for hotels is a good source of waste reduction ideas, not just for the guest room, but also for the front desk, banquet areas, and maintenance.

Full Title: Waste Reduction and Recycling for the Lodging Industry
URL: /01/00077.pdf
Length: 5 pages
Date: Rev. March 1996
Full Work Author: Sherman, Rhonda
Abstract: This fact sheet provides a step-by-step approach to setting up a waste reduction and recycling program in a hotel. It presents guides to recycling markets and documents the recycling program at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville.

Full Title: Waste Reduction and Recycling Recommendations for Las Vegas Hotels
URL: /01/00537.htm
Full Work Author: Pike, Tara
Abstract: Waste reduction and recycling recommendations for Las Vegas hotels.

Full Title: Waste Reduction Fact Sheets on… Hotels
URL: /20/19848.htm
Full Work Author: Recycling Council of Ontario
Abstract: General waste reduction fact sheet on hotels.

Articles and Reports |

Full Title: Donating Surplus Food to the Needy
URL: /02/01864.pdf
Length: 4 pages
Date: September 1996
Full Work Author: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Abstract: This paper describes how restaurants, hotels, and companies with food service operations can donate food to the needy, a great way to make use of excess food.

Full Title: Ecopurchasing in Hotels and Motels: Appendix C. - EcoProducts Directory
URL: /13/12166.pdf
Length: 9 pages
Date: 10/93
Full Work Author: Hammer, Marie S.; Townsend, Jo M.
Abstract: Steps to developing a hotel Eco-purchasing program.

Full Title: Ecopurchasing in Hotels and Motels: Offices
URL: /13/12160.pdf
Length: 3 pages
Date: 10/93
Full Work Author: Hammer, Marie S.; Townsend, Jo M.
Abstract: EcoPurchasing guidelines will assist hotel and motel purchasing managers reduce the volume and toxicity of wastes generated in OFFICES. To successfully reduce disposal costs, conduct a departmental audit to determine the types and volumes of wastes generated for disposal. Plan your EcoPurchasing program by targeting specific products or materials which contribute the greatest volume and/or weight to the waste stream or which create disposal problems. Establish short and long term departmental goals for waste reduction and implement appropriate EcoPurchasing strategies.

Full Title: Hotels, New York City's Garbage, and the Partnership for Waste Prevention
URL: /05/04499.pdf
Length: 14 pages
Date: 12/95
Full Work Author: New York City Department of Sanitation
Abstract: New York City's hospitality industry waste reduction program and cooperative efforts with the New York City Department of Sanitation.

Section Title: AN Appraisal Process For Environmental Efficiency - Going Green the Hospitality Market
Full Title: Interiors and Sources
URL: /30/29840.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Date: 03/96
Section Author: Jones, Beth Frankowski
Abstract: Evaluating current resort environmental programs for improvements.

Full Title: Introducing WAVE - Water Alliances for Voluntary Efficiency - Hotel Water Management for the 21st Century
URL: /03/02328.pdf
Length: 4 pages
Date: September 1994
Full Work Author: US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water

Full Title: Managing Food Scraps as Animal Feed
URL: /03/02095.pdf
Length: 4 pages
Date: September 1996
Full Work Author: United States Environmental Protection Agency
Abstract: This WasteWi$e tip sheet provides direction for restaurants, hotels, and companies with food service operations who choose to collect food scraps for use as livestock feed as a practical and economical alternative to landfill disposal.

Full Title: Managing Waste in Hotel and Motel Operations
URL: /13/12170.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Full Work Author: University of Florida, Florida Energy Extension Service
Abstract: The article discusses steps to start an ecopurchasing and recycling program which will ultimately help to lead to a "green" hotel designation.

Full Title: Pollution Prevention in the Coastal Zone - Waste Reduction at Sea: Pollution Prevention Strategies on Miami-Based Cruise Lines
URL: /02/01988.pdf
Length: 9 pages
Date: October 1998
Full Work Author: Mohammed, Jennifer; Torres, Roberto; Obenshain, Elizabeth
Abstract: This paper discusses the cruise line industry's waste disposal situation and efforts being made to comply with federal and international regulations.

Full Title: Recycling and Source Reduction for the Lodging Industry
URL: /30/29662.pdf
Length: 86 pages
Date: July 1993
Full Work Author: American Hotel & Motel Association
Abstract: This guide is designed to assist the hotel and lodging industry with waste reduction, with the principal focus on recycling.

Full Title: Recycling in Hotels and Motels - A Guide for Hotel and Motel Recycling Managers
URL: /12/11306.pdf
Length: 61 page
Date: December 1993
Full Work Author: University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service; Smith, Wayne; Tozer, Linda; Hammer, Marie; Earle, Jonathan
Section Author: Townsend, Jo M.
Abstract: This guidebook was generated out of a recycling pilot project involving 6 hotels in the Orlando area which evaluated the impact of hotel waste recycling on the amount of waste being disposed in Florida landfills, designed systems for recycling in hotels and motels, and developed educational media to assist hotel management in organizing their recycling programs. Topics covered are: program resources, how recycling saves energy, organizing hotel/motel recycling, how to involve and motivate employees, involving guests in the recycling program, selecting the materials for recycling, waste auditing, disposing of recyclables, materials recovery facility, developing the recycling materials flow plans and placing collection containers, recycling equipment consideration, materials collection and preparation, and recycling guidelines.

Full Title: Waste Reduction and Recycling for the Lodging Industry - A Guide for Hotel and Motel Managers
URL: /02/01405.pdf
Length: 53 pages
Date: April 1994
Full Work Author: Sherman, Rhonda
Abstract: This report reviews solid waste management regulations that affect the North Carolina lodging industry and provides advice about setting up a waste reduction/recycling program.

Manuals |

Full Title: EcoPurchasing Guide for Hotels and Motels - A Guide for Hotel and Motel Purchasing Managers
URL: /02/01784.pdf
Length: 46 pages
Date: Fall 1993
Full Work Author: University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service - Florida Energy Extension Service
Section Author: Hammer, Marie S.; Townsend, Jo M.; Smith, Wayne H.
Abstract: This guidebook assists hoteliers in initiating a program to utilize purchasing practices and aggressive management to reduce waste, toxicity and disposal costs. EcoPurchasing topics covered are: steps to organizing a hotel and motel program, guidelines for housekeeping and laundry departments, guidelines for food and beverage departments, and guidelines for energy efficiency. Includes a 12-page EcoProducts directory with product categories such as brooms,carpeting, trash bags, and furniture.

Full Title: Greening Your Property
URL: /04/03267.pdf
Length: 93 pages
Date: July 1996
Full Work Author: Green Seal
Section Author: Ton, My; Lin, Min; Radin, Deborah
Abstract: This manual describes environmental changes hotels and motels can make and highlights criteria for choosing environmentally preferable products. Because this manual was developed by the industry trade association, it carries credibility with hotel operators. The seven sections are: 1) Get Started, 2) Manage Energy Consumption, 3) Choose Efficient Lighting, 4) Manage Water Use, 5) Improving Indoor Air Quality, 6) Green Your Amenities and Services, and 7) Publicize Your Program. The spiral-bound format of this manual makes it well-suited to active use in a hotel. To order call the American Hotel & Motel Association at 517-353-5500. Cost: $37.50

Full Title: Hotel Water Conservation - A Seattle Demonstration
URL: /37/36217.pdf
Length: 138 pages
Date: 7/02
Full Work Author: Seattle Public Utilities Resource Conservation Section
Section Author: O'Neill & Siegelbaum and The RICE Group
Abstract: The purpose of the Hotel Water Conservation Pilot was to evaluate the effectiveness of combining an engineering approach with a behavioral/educational approach and to identify water use patterns and opportunities for water conservation in a selection of Seattle hotels.

Full Title: Less Garbage Overnight: A Waste Prevention Guide for the Lodging Industry
URL: /03/02129.pdf
Length: 67 page
Date: 1996
Full Work Author: INFORM
Section Author: Winter, John P.; Azimi, Sharene L.
Abstract: A guide for hotels and motels to use to identify strategies that can be implemented to prevent waste generation, reduce the burden on the natural environment, and save money. Purchasing, housekeeping, operations, and property improvements are included, as are 20 case studies.

Full Title: Pollution Prevention in the Hospitality Industry - A Tool Kit for Environmental Management
URL: /03/02134.pdf
Length: 79 pages
Date: September 1995
Full Work Author: Recom Applied Solutions, Inc.
Abstract: Guidelines for developing a comprehensive environmental management program for the hospitality industry in Montana.

Full Title: Strategy for Waste Reduction in the Hospitality Industry - The Green Plan for Hotels
URL: /05/04076.htm
Length: 13 pages
Full Work Author: North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance
Abstract: Creating an environmental policy program in the hospitality industry.

Full Title: Waste Reduction in Hotels and Motels - A Guide for Hotel and Motel Managers
URL: /04/03266.pdf
Length: 49 pages
Date: March 1996
Full Work Author: Georgia Hospitality Environmental Partnership
Abstract: This guidebook was developed to assist hotel, motel and restaurant managers in organizing their waste reduction initiatives. Topics covered are: program resources, waste reduction, recycling, waste reduction guidelines for offices, housekeeping and food and beverage, ecopurchasing guidelines for energy efficient equipment, selecting materials for recycling, marketing the materials, central recycling center, developing the recycling materials flow plans, materials collection and preparation, and recycling guidelines.

Full Title: Waste Reduction in Hotels and Motels - A Guide for the Lodging Industry in Florida
URL: /12/11895.pdf
Length: 32 pages
Date: September 1998
Full Work Author: Wagner, Matina
Abstract: All businesses look for ways to cut costs. Management seeks opportunities to streamline processes, improve systems, and maximize profit. They may call it efficiency, quality, or the search for excellence, but they are all looking for new ways to improve product or services while maintaining or lowering costs. In analyzing operations and procedures, many innovative companies have turned toward reducing their waste as an additional cost cutting method.

Web sites |

Full Title: Green Hotels Association Home Page
URL: http://www.greenhotels.com
Abstract: The Green Hotels Association promotes environmentally conscious lodging.

Full Title: Hospitality Topic Hub
URL: http://www.westp2net.org/hub/toc.cfm?hub=14&subsec=7&nav=7
Full Work Author: P2Rx - Pollution Prevention Resource Exchange
Section Author: P2 West - Western Regional Pollution Prevention Network

Full Title: The Canadian Pollution Prevention Information Clearinghouse
URL: http://www.ec.gc.ca/cppic/en/search.cfm?txtSearchString=hospitality
Full Work Author: The National Office of Pollution Prevention, Canada
Abstract: This site contains a searchable database of pollution prevention information. From the main page, choose the hospitality subsection and then search for specific areas of concern. Most documents are available on-line.

Full Title: The Green Hotel Website and Newsletter
URL: http://www.vtgreenhotels.org/index.htm
Abstract: This is a website that includes a newsletter with a slant toward environmentally friendly practices in the hospitality industry. It promises to provide good information about managing green properties. This site comes complete with case studies. Although focused primarily on Vermont hotels, the website has useful information applicable to most hotel P2 programs.

Full Title: The Green Plan for Hotels
URL: http://www.p2pays.org/hospitality/
Abstract: The Green Plan for Hotels is an initiative from the North Carolina Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance (DPPEA) to hospitality and lodging properties throughout North Carolina. The initiative targets waste reduction, recycling, energy and water conservation — all of which are good for business!

Full Title: University of Missouri Hospitality Pollution Prevention Website
URL: http://extension.missouri.edu/polsol/hotel.htm
Abstract: This website is a basic “suggestion box” for hospitality sector P2. It has a click-on menu to scroll down the list of waste reduction and pollution prevention methods. It also includes a waste reduction guide for small businesses.

Online Presentations |

Section Title: Energy Savings Opportunities in Controls, Lighting, Air Conditioning, Water Heating and Refrigeration
Full Title: First Joint Statewide Pollution Prevention and Environmental Essentials Conference - July 31-August 2, 2002, Miami Beach, FL
URL: /20/19177.ppt
Length: 19 pages
Date: 7/02
Section Author: Thomas, Chuck

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Content provided by N.C. Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance and Waste Reduction Resource Center through a grant from the EPA.