“Satisfy guests’ needs with the environment in mind.” Inspired by Westin, this is the eco-chic green hotel mantra of the Element hotel brands including Element Ewing-Hopewell in Ewing, New Jersey – the first in New Jersey and seventh globally.

Element Ewing has taken the lead in going green. Built green from the ground up, the Element Ewing is pursuing the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED silver certification as mandated by the hotel brand wide commitment. For the eco-conscious traveler, this nationally accepted benchmark proves Element Ewing’s strong environmental commitment as well as making it easier to be environmentally responsible when away from home.

From recycled building materials to conservation of natural resources, the green hotel serves as a cutting-edge model for where the hospitality industry is headed. Green features are cleverly designed to be as aesthetically appealing as they are eco-friendly, so guests never compromise on style and comfort. The Element Ewing’s green hotel features includes:

• Soap and shampoo dispensers
• Recycling bins in guest rooms and public areas
• Low VOC (low volatile organic compounds) paints and adhesives
• Flooring composed of recycled rubber and vinyl
• Recycled carpeting
• Eco-friendly carpets and furniture
• Compact fluorescent light bulbs
• Energy-efficient appliances
• Bicycles easily available

All rooms have showers only with aerator fixtures that restrict water flow, but still give guests a comfortable amount of water pressure. Along with water-smart landscaping, the hotel is expected to reduce a large amount of water consumption yearly.

For energy efficiency, the hotel uses Energy Star-rated appliances, oversized heat-resistant windows in the rooms, natural lighting in the lobby among many other energy conservation measures.

Why is building according to LEED principles compelling?
Aside from existing and upcoming changes to legislation requiring LEED certification for new builds in major cities such as Boston and Washington DC, there are both environmental and financial benefits to pursuing LEED certification.

• Provide for lower operating costs through energy efficiency and water conservation
• Reduce harmful greenhouse gas and ozone-depleting emissions
• Provide for healthier and safer environments for occupants
• Reduce waste sent to landfills
• Often qualify for expedited approvals, tax rebates, zoning allowances and other incentives in many cities
• Demonstrate to customers and the location community an owner’s commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility

Source: EcoGreenHotel