Why we’re not a Green Hotel.

We’ve been asked to explain why Inn Victoria is not part of the Green Inn association in Chester. First things first, we believe Inn Victoria is an “environmentally responsible” lodging property.  We own only one car and have reduced our annual mileage substantially.  By investing in double pane windows throughout, zoning the heating, and installing new digital controls, we’ve cut our heating oil consumption by 50%, reducing our atmospheric carbon emissions by over 17700lb per year and at the same time enhancing the comfort of our guests.  We’ve installed almost 200 compact fluorescent bulbs and offer a towel re-use program for guests who request this gesture.  We have been told that it would only take a little effort (like buying recycled trash bags or copier paper) to qualify as a Green Hotel in Vermont under the State certification scheme. However having first hand experience of the Green movement in Europe, where being Green is a lifestyle choice, not something you can justify through buying a recycled product, we felt that selectively being “a bit Green” would be a discredit to those that totally embrace the philosophy of the Green movement.  There are some wonderful Green Hotels in Vermont who provide stellar examples of how to do this, with organic bedding, towels, and amenities.  Who recycle and compost and use post consumer recycled product where ever possible. They drive hybrid vehicles or ride bicycles and buy direct farm fresh organic produce. They have installed water saving devices and super efficient boilers.  They have a mission and a passion, and we have total admiration for these folk, but we cannot lay claim to that level of dedication – so we do what we can, and make no apologies for continuing with the few practices and products that may not be perceived as “Green” but we feel are necessary to our business.  Todays discerning guests have certain expectations. While a few may actively seek out Green lodging, the majority are still looking for luxuries and indulgences when they visit a high end bed and breakfast. Things such as high pressure showers, deep tubs, soft bathroom tissue and individual wrapped soaps and amenities.  To continue to run a successful business we have to provide the service our guests expect.  It is also paramount that our establishment be clean, safe and hygienic and compliant with all Health department codes. We are compelled to use bleach for sanitization to comply with State regulations and I have yet to find an Eco friendly cleaning product that works as effectively as my current product.   With so much media buzz, being Green can be perceived as a commercial advantage but we felt it would be dishonest of us to lay claim to being something we’re not.  We have too much respect for our guests and our community to “green wash” our business. We will continue to do what we can to minimize our carbon footprint but do not feel the need of a “label” to run a responsible business.