Cost Saving Opportunities
Using resources efficiently and reducing excess waste are key factors for operating a successful business and protecting the planet. This is especially true for the hospitality industry where the increasing cost and use of energy, water, and waste disposal have a significant impact. The Green Key audit and performance report is designed to help hoteliers identify ways to reduce operating costs through new technologies, supply chain management, employee awareness, and guest participation. Case studies and proven cost saving initiatives are shared with all participants.

Through a partnership established between the Hotel Association of Canada and Natural Resources Canada, The Green Key Eco- Rating program also helps identify hoteliers who qualify for funding through Natural Resources Canada for energy retrofit planning and projects.

Sales & Marketing Opportunities
As support for sustainable development continues to grow, so does the demand for responsible accommodation. Green Key-rated hotels have access to the following unique tools and resources:

• Promotion on the Find Green Hotels page of the Green Key website with a direct link to your homepage
  
• Use of the Green Key logo for collateral development as well as a logo specific to your Green Key Rating
  
• Contact information for businesses and organizations seeking Green Key Rated hotels
  
• Green Key recognition in provincial accommodation guides
  
• Your Green Key rating added to your posting* on the Federal Public Works/Environment Canada internal business travel directory

* HAC provides monthly updates to PWGSC and your rating will be included in the listing if your hotel has a standing offer to provide room rates in accordance with government terms and conditions. Click here for more information on this government directory.

Public Relations Tools & Opportunities
Promoting your environmental accomplishments to the media has never been easier. Green Key-rated hotels can download press release templates tailored to their 1-5 key rating, and access sample key messages and information on delivering their message to various news media.

Visitor Satisfaction
According to a recent survey conducted by the Travel Association of America and sponsored by National Geographic Traveler magazine, 58.5 million travellers say they would pay more to use a travel company that strives to protect and preserve the environment. The HAC's Green Key Eco-Rating program provides hoteliers with access to logos and a plaque in recognition of their performance and offers tips on promoting environmental awareness to guests without sacrificing service or satisfaction.

Employee Training & Motivation
In order to reduce environmental impacts and operating costs you need your employees' help. The Green Key audit provides hoteliers with a property-specific action plan to focus employee resources and motivate behavioural changes. By involving your employees in the firm's environmental activities, you also help create a great sense of pride in the company.

Tips, Tricks and Other Resources
The member section of the site provides hoteliers with a detailed guide to helping them complete the audit, including definitions of terms and more

The “Greening Your Department” tips list ways in which the following areas can change practices and attitudes: Laundry, Kitchens, Offices & Public Areas, Stores/Purchasing, Housekeeping, Engineering/Maintenance, Food & Beverage Services

The “Tools” section of the member site provides links to resources under the following headings: General Informational, Financial Tools & Incentives, Technical Tools, and Articles & Case Studies.

The “Links” page provides them with a gateway to a variety of information, programs, incentives, publications, and more in a variety of areas:

• Environment/Sustainable Development
  
• Facility Management
  
• Food Service Equipment
  
• Government Program Information
  
• Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
  
• Laundry Systems
  
• Lighting Systems
  
• Renewable Energy / Co-Generation
  
• Utilities
  
• Water / Wastewater Systems
  

The Hotel Association of Canada is continually working to provide new benefits to its Green Key members. Current projects include initiatives with Earth Day Canada, Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) and more.