The well being of our community is not the only primary concern, but the key to a healthy environment lies in the well being of the entire world.

Tourism being one of the leading growth sectors of the global economy is helping to bring billions of dollars annually and also transports millions of people internationally. Growth in tourism industry has increased the amount of stress on environment which needs to be balanced properly such that natural resources are conserved for future generations to come.

Ecotourism is growing rapidly as it is nature oriented and environment friendly and represents a growing market for environmentally friendly options to be brought in use in the tourism industry.

After analyzing the negative impacts of their business on environment, hotel Industry has taken a step forward by going green to help in cleaning the environment. The step towards green hotel certification by the tourism industry will bring growth in the economy and help to keep the environment safe and healthy.

Environmentally friendly practices practiced by hotel industry and Ecotourism go hand in hand and help in harmonizing tourism and sustainability in the environment.

Another step taken by hotels is The Green Hotel Certification.

Green Hotels

Green Hotels are the hotels that use energy, water and materials efficiently in an environmentally friendly manner without compromising on the quality in the service.

Green Hotels help in both conserving and preserving nature and resources.

What is Green Hotel Certification?

A leading third party certification based on documentation accepted worldwide is Green Hotel Certification. Green Hotel Certification recognizes the sustainability efforts being taken.

Green Hotel Certification can be regarded as a promotional tool which will help you reach a global consumer market aware of the importance of environment.

Certification Criteria

The basic areas to be assessed for green hotel certification include:

· Energy efficiency,

· Conservation of water,

· Air quality both indoors and outdoors,

· Management of waste,

· Issues related to culture and society.

The Process of Certification

With Green Hotel Certification, all paperwork is eliminated and conservation of resources and an updated property is guaranteed. The process of certification can be divided into following phases:

1. Training: Proper training to the staff is a must,

2. Evaluation: After it has been decided what training programs are to be run, the need to be evaluated,

3. Audit: An auditor's duty is to conduct the audit,

4. Implementation: Proper implementation is the key to satisfaction,

5. Technical Support, and

6. Marketing Assistance.

Benefits of Green Hotel Certification

Green Hotel Certification program helps a property to enjoy various benefits:

· Brand image and reputation of the corporation is enhanced,

· New revenue opportunities are created,

· The operating and maintenance costs are reduced,

· International recognition and opening up of new markets,

· Community connections are strengthened, and

· A healthier work environment.

Apart from the above described benefits, high return, increased profits and positive cash flows are also some of the major benefits that are increasing the popularity of Green Hotel certification.

In a nutshell, it can be said that to protect our environment, to increase competition, to gain profits and to earn recognition, green Hotel certification is a positive step.