Starwood pays guests to go green

Starwood Hotels and Resorts new “Make a Green Choice” program is awarding guests with gift cards and membership points for going green during a stay at the one chain’s many Sheraton and Westin properties across the country.

Formerly known as “You Tidy, We Treat,” Starwood’s “Make a Green Choice” enjoyed amazing success at its pilot hotel, the Sheraton Seattle.

“Many of our guests are environmentally conscious in their day-to-day lives and decide to stay at the Sheraton Seattle because of our green efforts” says General Manager Matthieu Van Der Peet. “’Make A Green Choice’ is a great way to give our guests a choice to continue their green practices while at the Sheraton Seattle. We look forward to seeing the success we’ve experienced reflected throughout all of the Starwood locations,”

“Make A Green Choice” allows guests to opt out of linen and towel replacement as well as daily housekeeping, giving guests the choice to actively maintain environmental sustainability. Guests can choose to participate in the program for one night or up to three nights at a time during their stay. Guests are rewarded for each night they opt out of housekeeping services with a US$5 gift card to any of the hotel’s restaurants or 500 Starpoints.

A recent survey from USA Travel Association found that 54 million adults are more likely to book travel with companies that attempt to protect and preserve the local environment. In the first two months of “Make A Green Choice” pilot program at the Sheraton Seattle, over 3,000 guests participated saving about 126,000 gallons of water, in addition to decreasing energy and chemical consumption.

Sheraton Seattle also increased bookings specifically because of this program. Through this and other eco-friendly initiatives Sheraton Seattle has been able to reduce their energy index by more than 20% in 2008. It has also been able to recycle over 24,000 pounds, or 12 tons, of materials per month.

“Make A Green Choice” will be coming soon to all Sheraton and Westin’s throughout North America. Vouchers are only valid during guest’s current stay and can be used at the hotel’s restaurants or in-room dining options. To participate guests must hang a “Make A Green Choice” card outside of their guest room door before 2 a.m. Guests are not eligible for the program the night before checking out of the room.

This program builds upon a long-standing history of supporting environmentally friendly initiatives at Sheraton Seattle. The hotel was recently honored with the 2009 Good Earthkeeping Stars of the Industry Award by the American Hotel & Lodging Association for its creation of a comprehensive Green Strategy, focusing on three major areas: building infrastructure and physical enhancements; increasing associate awareness and involvement; and guest participation.

For more information, visit www.starwoodhotels.com.