Next time you take a trip for business or leisure, think about more than whether or not your hotel has a workout room and a breakfast buffet; choose a lodging that puts a priority on taking good care of you and the environment. That’s the message of a new California Integrated Waste Management Board initiative designed to encourage travelers to stay at “green hotels” -- hospitality establishments that save energy, water, and resources, and divert waste from landfill disposal through environmentally friendly business practices.

“Recycling cans, bottles, and plastic bags is commendable – but it doesn’t go far enough,” said Terry Tamminen of the California Environmental Protection Agency. “The hospitality industry is a vital partner in our efforts to reduce the environmental impact of our day-to-day business operations.”

Tamminen will help launch the state’s new Green Lodging Program in San Francisco at the Hotel Triton. Held up as a model of “eco chic” for its commitment to reducing energy and water consumption, as well as implementing numerous waste reduction practices and emphasizing organic materials, the Hotel Triton recycles 60% of its waste. The board identifies the hotel as an example of what it takes to be named to the state’s new Green Lodging Program list.

“Patronizing hotels that go above and beyond for the environment is something we hope every traveler in California will consider,” said board member Michael Paparian. “The Hotel Triton is a model Green Lodging facility and we appreciate their voluntary efforts to help California reach zero waste.”

“We are thrilled that Kimpton's Hotel Triton has been selected as a model for conservation by the state of California,” said Michael Pace, Kimpton Hotels city manager and leader of Kimpton Hotels eco-program. “The Hotel Triton was the first Kimpton Hotel to introduce eco-rooms. Kimpton’s future plans include outfitting each of our 38 hotels with an eco-floor. Making the choice to stay in any one of Kimpton’s eco-rooms provides environmentally conscious guests with a sense of responsibility, appreciation, and care for the planet."

To be included in the Green Lodging Program, facilities must:

• Establish recycling programs in common areas, guest rooms, and administrative areas
  
  
• Incorporate food scrap and yard waste composting programs where cost-effective
  
  
• Participate in donation programs for food, surplus furniture, electronics, and other items
  
  
• Use refillable amenity dispensers or minimally packaged items in recyclable materials
  
  
• Purchase in bulk to reduce excess waste from packaging
  
  
• Minimize use of disposable items
  
  
• Install energy- and water-efficient fixtures, lighting, and other equipment
  
  
• Use nontoxic (or less toxic) alternatives for cleaning supplies, paints, etc.
  
  
• Adopt an environmental purchasing policy for preferable products such as recycled-content office paper, tissue, napkins, and other items
  
  
• Develop annual environmental improvement goals

For a list of lodging facilities that offer state travelers a government rate, which includes the Green Lodging Program properties, visit catravelsmart.com. Visitors will find participating member establishments listed by city. Hotels, motels, and other hospitality establishments earn a place on the list by meeting a broad array of criteria for resource conservation that demonstrate a dedication to environmental stewardship.