Resorts & Hotels
Green Resorts & Hotels are businesses that are committed to conserving Hawaii’s natural resources by implementing practices that conserve and save water, energy, and lower the amount of solid waste generated. Some hotels, for example, are taking extra measures by providing towel and sheet changing cards which “ask that guests consider using their linens more than once” (Green Hotels Association). In addition to accommodations, hotels provide many services for its guests, such as food, beverage, and laundry services, and a variety of recreational opportunities. All of these services provide opportunities for hotels to engage in “green” business practices.
The tourism sector, which encompasses the hotel industry, is one of Hawaii’s most important resources. Tourism accounts for a “quarter of the Hawaiian economy and approximately a third of its jobs” (Ernst & Young LLP). In 2009, Hawaii Travel & Tourism produced almost $12.9 billion of economic activity and 138,600 jobs (The State of Hawaii Data Book 2010). With over 914 properties for lodging and over 70,783 rooms (The State of Hawaii Data Book 2002), it is easy to see that the tourism industry offers a tremendous number of pollution prevention opportunities.
Sub-partners and participants in the Hotel Industry Program include:
- Department of Land and Natural Resources
- Hawaii Department of Water
- Hawaii Hotel & Lodging Association
- Hawaiian Electric Company
- Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa
- Honolulu Board of Water Supply
- Kauai Department of Water
- Maui Department of Water Supply
- Sheraton Hotels and Resorts in Hawaii
- Aloha Shares
- Baseyard Hawaii