In today's world, it's truly easier than ever to live an eco-friendly lifestyle. More and more brands are becoming environmentally safe, making it easier for the consumer to live a greener life. The health and wellness industries are no stranger to the recent eco-boom, with organizations like the Green Spa Network and brands like Au Naturale Cosmetics becoming stepping into the spotlight. Here, find seven simple ways you can make your spa greener, and reduce its carbon footprint.
- Switch to energy efficient lighting and fixtures. The EPA's Energy Star program has opened the door to luxuriously-styled, decorative lighting fixtures that use a third of the energy consumed by standard fixtures. By using less energy, we release less green house gas emissions.
- Install low-flow, water-conservative shower heads and aerators. Reduce your impact even more so by installing low-flow toilets and sinks.
- Use non-toxic cleansers and paints. Companies like EcoLab have a full line of industrial cleaning products that are eco-friendly.
- Provide guests with organic, unbleached bedding and linens. Conventional cotton farming practices alone produce more that 25 percent of all the pesticides in the U.S. Choose sustainable fabrics like bamboo or birch fiber for linens and robes. Also, sell apparel in your boutique made out of environmentally-friendly alternatives.
- Purchase wood furniture made from recycled wood or wood from renewable forests. Keep in mind that compressed board furniture gets sprayed with formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals.
- Add recycling bins in common areas, and use three-compartment waste bins in guests' rooms—glass/plastic, paper, and trash.
- To go that extra eco-mile, try getting evaluated through the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System. You can also hire LEED certified architects or designers to help setup a road map to greening your hotel.
What are some of the ways your spa is going green? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram.
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