As more and more people recognize the importance of reducing the carbon footprint they make on the planet, individuals and corporations alike are taking the needed steps to move into a greener future. Here in Houston, Hilton Americas-Houston hotel is at the forefront of the city’s green movement as they demonstrate their environmental leadership in their operations and purchasing. This effort to reduce environmental impact and improve sustainability offers the added benefits of improving the bottom line and benefiting the environment, while also moving the hotel toward the goal of achieving Green Seal certification.
Green Seal, an independent non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding the environment and transforming the marketplace, promotes the manufacture, purchase and use of environmentally responsible products and services. In partnership since 1995 with the lodging industry, the nation’s second largest employer, the organization provides assistance and expertise to properties working toward certification.
Just some of the many things being done at the Hilton Americas-Houston to reduce the hotel’s environmental impact and become a Green Seal property include:
• Replacing current lighting with energy efficient, compact florescent lighting (CFL.)
• Recycling comingled plastic, paper and metal cans.
• Recycling paper, cardboard and fluorescent light bulbs.
• Reusing paper to minimize waste.
• Conserving water.
• Composting food waste.
• Using nontoxic and biodegradable cleaning products.
• Following an environmental purchasing policy.
• Using environmentally responsible suppliers.
• Using materials made from post-consumer recycled content.
• Replacing disposable food service items with reusable or biodegradable items.
• Turning off lights in areas that are not occupied.
• Installing on/off lighting timers in low traffic and low occupancy areas.
• Recycling kitchen oil.
• Recycling toner cartridges.
• Offering guests the option to reuse towels & linens for multiple nights.
• Using refillable soap dispensers in housekeeping areas and public restrooms.
• Using the smallest necessary portion size for guest amenities.
• Donating partially used amenities to local shelters.
• Replacing equipment, as needed, with energy efficient models.
• Donating leftover food to local shelters, at customers’ request.
Directly connected to the George R. Brown Convention Center, the Hilton Americas-Houston contains the city’s largest number of guestrooms, ballrooms, hotel meeting space, and the most technologically advanced services available under one roof. Conveniently situated between Toyota Center and Minute Maid Park, this AAA Four Diamond rated hotel boasts 1,203 luxuriously appointed guestrooms, 91,500 square feet of flexible meeting space, three restaurants, a lobby bar, coffee emporium, and full service spa and health club.