Sustainability Requirements for Accommodations

1. Is there a recycling program that at a minimum includes separating and collecting recyclable material from hotel guests (and conference/meeting attendees if applicable)? Please provide specifics as to how the program is fully operational.

2. Accommodation has installed in all guestrooms and public washrooms at least two of the following: low-flow water conserving showerheads, tap aerators and toilets.

Other means for reducing water consumption:


3. What percentage of lighting is compact fluorescent or comparable high-efficiency in the lobby, hallways, and other common areas?

In guest rooms?


4. What environmental products (biodegradable, reusable and/or recyclable) are being used?

5. Provide examples as to how you train and employ local people at fair wages, are equitable in hiring local minorities and women, and refrain from child labor. If you provide employee training and there an environmental awareness/practices component, please explain.

6. How do you help conserve the surrounding flora and fauna?

7. How is the use of harmful substances, including pesticides, insecticides, paints, disinfectants, cleaning materials, etc., minimized? Be specific.

8. How is wastewater, including gray water, treated effectively?

9. What is your solid waste management plan? How is solid waste that is not reused or recycled minimized?

10. To what extent/how is the accommodation’s energy needs met though passive design and/or renewable energy resources?

11. What kinds of educational programs, information and/or activities are offered to guests about the surrounding natural and cultural environments?

12. How do you use local and fair-trade goods and services?

13. How do you provide for a safe environment for employees and guests?

14. How do you communicate about the hotel’s environmental commitment and initiatives to guests (room directories, tent cards, personal communication by staff, etc.)?

15. Was traditional building material and technology used where possible? Does the accommodation blend with the local physical and cultural environment? Was there attention to form and landscaping, as well as the use of traditional architecture, and local resources used in the development in the property? Was there minimal impact to the environment during construction, and after?

16. In what way(s) have you sponsored or directly participated in a local conservation or environmental stewardship initiative?

17. Is the accommodation independently owned and locally run?

18. How many guest rooms are available?

19. Are promotional materials accurate without promising more than can be reasonably expected by guests, and ecological/environmental messages relayed?

Documentation is required as to the accommodation’s sustainability, which can be in the form of a policy/procedures manual, a second or third party sustainability certification or rating document from a recognized, reputable governmental agency or NGO, a recognized award, etc. Please e-mail bp@wiserworldtravel.com or send to Wiser World, 2025 Oak Ave., Boulder, CO 80304, USA.

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