Green hotel operation encompasses everything from linen reuse programs to environmentally friendly cleaning supplies and beyond. Travelers should look for policies that save water and energy, reduce waste, and protect the earth.

Because the green lodging movement is still developing, information on environmental policies can be scarce. Before making your next reservation, call and ask about these areas:

• Energy efficiency – What portion of the property uses energy efficient lighting? Do you use lighting sensors and programmable thermostats in guestrooms?
• Solid waste reduction – Do you use refillable toiletry dispensers instead of individual bottles? What type of recycling and composting programs are in place?
• Air and water quality – Do you use environmentally responsible cleaning products? Are air filtration systems in place?
• Water conservation – Do you offer a linen reuse option? Have you installed low-flow toilets and showerheads?
• Environmental product use – Are your paper products made with post-consumer recycled content? Do you use environmentally responsible service providers, such as pest management and landscaping?

LIVE GREEN: Learn about the simple steps you can take in your everyday life to lead a more Earth-friendly lifestyle.

Several organizations offer certifications that can help you determine which hotels are working toward environmental excellence.

• LEED®: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design – This benchmark for environmental excellence is offered by the U.S. Green Building Council. The LEED system promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.
• The Green Seal – This group partners with the lodging industry to promote environmentally responsible products and practices. View a list of Green Seal-certified lodging here.
• The Green Hotels Association® – This organization provides ideas, techniques, and information that help members adopt environmentally responsible processes, services and techniques. View a list of member hotels here.

From family-run inns to plush resorts, more lodging is environmentally friendly than ever before.

Marriott International, one of the largest hotel chains in the world, exemplifies the new spirit of environmental responsibility. Their property in College Park, Maryland is the country's first LEED-certified hotel and conference center.

As General Manager Mike McCarthy explains, "Every facility in the hotel uses recyclable materials and energy-saving systems to ensure a positive impact on the environment. Marriott worked toward this goal from a corporate level, because it’s the right thing to do."

From composting in the kitchens to in-room recycling, the 248-room hotel is setting the standard for green lodging operation.

TAKE THE PLEDGE: Your choices when you travel can make a big environmental impact. Pledge to travel green on your next trip.

Hotel managers care about what guests think. So if you find yourself in a property with lagging environmental practices, speak with a manager. If you've chosen a particular hotel because of their existing policies, let them know that, too.

Whether it's a business conference or a family vacation, the environmentally aware traveler has more choices than ever. With just a bit of research and a few questions, you can ensure your next reservation is your most earth-friendly yet.

OFFSET NOW: Are you preparing for a trip? After you've done everything you can to minimize your footprint, offset the rest with our Carbon Calculator.

Read about the partnership between Marriott and the Brazilian State of Amazonas.