The U. S. Lodging Industry and the Environment

Abstract

The historical record indicates that, from at least the early part of the twentieth century, the hotel industry has been involved in and concerned with environmental-management initiatives, if for no better reason than saving money and delivering reliable, quality service. The industry has almost continuously recognized both the importance of the environment and the impact of lodging operations on the environment. Moreover, as new technologies and knowledge have emerged in the area of environmental management, the industry has adopted them. At the same time, many properties could focus more strongly on environmental issues and the industry as a whole may have lapsed in its caretaker role during the 1980s' rush to expand. Nevertheless, based on the written record, the U.S. lodging industry has posted many positive environmental accomplishments in the areas of waste reduction, energy conservation, water consumption, and materials reuse and recycling, and by dedicating land to conservation and preservation purposes.