It can be a lot fun to plan a getaway to a different city. We find out what there is to do and see and where to stay. When most of us start hunting for a hotel we think about convenience, cost and cool amenities. But what about getting all that and going green too? No matter what your destination is there are ways to Do Your Part when it comes to tracking down eco-friendly hotels.

There are two main websites that can help. You may have heard about the eco leaf ratings by IStayGreen.org. This organization has rated 3,000 different hotels. In order for a hotel to receive a green leaf rating they have to complete a self audit and then they’re evaluated based on their green initiatives.

Another popular site is EnvironmentallyFriendlyHotels.com. They have a rating system based on environmental initiatives that visitors can see such as recycling, towel and sheet programs and water conserving bathroom fixtures. The site also considers things you can’t see like whether the hotel buys green energy or donates to charity. Their ratings are from one green tree to the highest rating of 7 trees.

More well-known travel sites such as Travelocity and Orbitz highlight a few green hotel options. And, the government’s Energy Star program rates certain hotels based on what they are doing to conserve energy. The information on some of the locations is very specific including what retro-fits are underway and how much money the hotels can expect to save. But, their ratings don’t take into account other green initiatives like composting or using non toxic cleaners.

Soon, AAA will also begin offering their own eco-ratings in their popular guidebook. Finding an eco-friendly hotel wherever you want to go doesn’t have to be hard work. And once you’re in one you can relax and feel good about making a better choice for our planet.

To Learn More Visit:
IStayGreen.org
EnvironmentallyFriendlyHotels.com
Travelocity
Orbitz
Energy Star Labeled Buildings and Plants