Detailed Survey Guide and Audit Requirements

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 71

DETAILED

SURVEY GUIDE
AND AUDIT
REQUIREMENTS:
EUROPE*

Excluding UK, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain which have their own independent guides.

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements


requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Filter Questions
Required Questions
Energy Questions
Water Questions
Purchasing Questions
Waste Questions
Site Questions
Education & Innovation Questions

Viceroy Miami, Miami, FL

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

BEGIN WITH Filter Questions


The filter questions are used to customize the application form to reflect your
propertys features. If you select no to a filter question, the questions that are not
relevant to your property will be removed from the application form. For example,
if your property does not have a pool, you will not be asked about pool covers or
pool water heating equipment. Your final score will reflect the percentage of green
practices you do out of your possible pool of relevant practices.
Westin Kierland Resort and Spa, Scottsdale, AZ

F1.

Select yes if your property has an on-site kitchen which serves meals, snacks,
and/or beverages. If your property does not have this feature, selecting no will
remove all food and beverage related questions from the application form
(questions P.1, and Ws.6), and you will only be asked relevant questions.

F2.

Select yes if your property has any indoor or outdoor pools or jacuzzis. If your
property does not have these features, selecting no will remove all pool and
jacuzzi related questions from the application form (questions E.5 and E.6),
and you will only be asked relevant questions.

F3.

Select yes if your property has any landscaping on-site. This includes gardens,
yards, grassy areas, and green roofing. If your property does not have this
feature, selecting no will remove all landscaping related questions from the
application form (questions W.4, S.2, S.3 and S.5), and you will only be asked
relevant questions.

F4.

Please select the date range that your property was constructed. For the
purposes of this question, the date of construction should be considered
when the building was first completed, and not include the date of any type
of renovation.

Do you have an on-site kitchen, with appliances for


the preparation and/or storage of food?

Do you have an outdoor or indoor pool or jacuzzi?


(excludes jacuzzis/spas in rooms)

Do you have landscaping, such as gardens, or a


green (vegetated) roof?

How recently was your building constructed?



0-9 years ago



10-49 years ago



50-99 years ago



100-199 years ago



Over 200 years ago

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

Required Questions
These activities must be in place for a property
to qualify for the GreenLeaders program.

InterContinental New York Barclay, NY

R1A.
Do you track energy on a regular basis (at least
every 3 months)?

Energy tracking involves measuring and recording property energy use


from all fuel sources (e.g. electricity, natural gas). Tracking helps identify
the main uses of energy, record progress over time, and identify areas for
improvements. To learn more about implementing an energy tracking system,
please click here.
The following information should be measured and documented within the
energy tracking system.
1. The source(s) of energy used in the building (e.g., electricity, natural gas).
This is important because each fuel source has a different environmental
impact. Check with your local utility provider to find out the fuel source
for your electricity.
2. The amount of energy used from each source (e.g. kWh of electricity).
3. Time period (e.g., June 1- June 30, 2014).
Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
Programs.

R1B.



Utility tracking tools are sometimes offered by your local utility provider
to help you track your energy consumption.



Other Tracking System



Tracking Systems can range from an Excel spreadsheet used to log energy
usage data over time to a corporate, in-house tracking program.

What do you use for an energy tracking system?

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




Summary of energy consumption showing the last 12 months of


continuous energy usage data for the building including all fuel uses
(electricity, gas, oil, etc.). If there are multiple buildings, the summary
should include total energy consumption for all buildings.

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

R2.

Do you have a towel reuse plan in place, which


includes housekeeper training (if you have staff)
and periodic checks?

Detailed Question Guide

A towel reuse policy changes guest towels only upon request or every few
days, rather than every day. This saves significant amounts of energy and
water, uses fewer chemicals, and results in lower greenhouse gas emissions.
An effective towel reuse plan should include the following:
1. Clear communication to ensure that guests are aware of the option to
reuse their towel.
2. Housekeeping training when staff are initially hired, and then periodically.
3. Regular checks to ensure that housekeeping staff are following the policy.
To learn more about towel reuse programs, please click here.
Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
program.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


A copy of housekeeping training documents explaining how towel re-use


policy is implemented.



Photographs of the signage used to communicate the towel-reuse policy


in guestrooms.

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

R3.

Do you have a linen reuse plan in place, which


includes housekeeper training (if you have staff)
and periodic checks?

Detailed Question Guide

A linen reuse policy changes guest linens only upon request or every few days,
rather than every day. This saves significant amounts of energy and water,
uses fewer chemicals, and results in lower greenhouse gas emissions.
An effective linen reuse plan should also cover the following:
1. Clear communication to ensure that guests are aware of the option to
reuse their linens.
2. Housekeeping training when staff are initially hired and then periodically.
3. Regular checks to ensure that housekeeping staff are following the policy.
To learn more about a linen reuse program, please click here.
Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
program.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:

R4A.

Do you have a recycling plan in place which collects


at least two types of waste to be recycled, includes
staff training (if you have staff), and periodic
checks?



A copy of housekeeping training documents explaining how linen re-use


policy is implemented.



Photograph of the signage used to communicate the linen-reuse policy in


guestrooms.

Most municipalities and waste haulers offer recycling for glass, some or all
plastics, paper, cardboard, and metals. Recycling reduces the amount of waste
entering landfills or being incinerated, and reduces the amount of resources
being used to produce new materials.
To find out which plastic products can be recycled in your area, check the
plastic type symbol, usually found on the bottom of the packaging, and check
with your local provider which types can be recycled. Plastic types 1 (PET) and
2 (HDPE) are the most commonly recycled.
To learn more about recycling in hotels, please click here.
If recycling is not available in your geographic area, please select recycling is
not available in my area, and you will be given an exception from meeting
this requirement.
Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
program.

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

R4B.

Please specify which materials you regularly recycle.

R4C.

Where is your recycling sorted (separated from nonrecyclable waste)?



Paper



Glass



Cardboard



Plastic



Metal



Single-stream recycling/mixed recycling:

Detailed Question Guide

Hotels can sort recyclable from non-recyclable waste in several ways. The most
common ways are:


Guest rooms have recycling bins available, allowing guests to sort their
trash directly.



Common areas have recycling bins available, allowing guests to sort their
trash directly.



Housekeeping carts are equipped with recycling equipment, allowing the


staff to sort recyclables.



Back of house recycling is sorted by staff before being brought to a


recycling center.



A waste hauler sorts the recyclables off-site.

Selecting any of these options meets this requirement. If applicable, you may
select more than one.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


If guest rooms, housekeeping carts, or back of house are selected:


Photographs showing recycling bins. Each photograph must include
an accompanying description of the date, time and location where the
photograph was taken.



If off-site by waste hauler is selected: Copy of contract or letter from waste


hauler confirming that paper, glass, cardboard, plastics and metals are
collected and recycled off-site.

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

R5.

Do you train your staff on understanding and


implementing green practices, at least once a
year? This should include front of house and
back of house (e.g. housekeeping, maintenance)
employees.

Detailed Question Guide

Staff members should be knowledgeable about your facilitys green efforts


and able to discuss them with guests. Implementation training is essential to
ensure employees understand how to put green practices into action. This
ensures that operations and building systems are running as efficiently as
possible, which reduces energy, water usage and waste generation.
To learn more about housekeeping practices that save on water and energy,
please click here.
Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
program. If your property does not have staff, then you will be considered
exempt from this question requirement.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


R6.

Do you provide information for guests on your


propertys green practices?

Copy of training materials used to train or educate employees about the


green practices employed at the property.

Educational materials help guests understand the green practices your


property has in place. There are many ways to provide this information:


Signage in guest rooms



Signage in the lobby



Signage in conference areas/public spaces



Printed brochures/pamphlets



On website



Tours/workshops

To learn more about communicating your green practices with guests, please
click here.
Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
program.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copies of educational reference materials placed in the guestrooms.



URL of the website that is used to educate guests and visitors about the
propertys green practices.

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

R7.

Do at least 75% of your interior light bulbs consist


of LED, CFL, and T5 or T8 fluorescent lighting?
(Please exclude specialized bulbs for historic
lighting fixtures, such as antique chandeliers.)

Detailed Question Guide

Energy efficient light bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional
incandescent and T12 fluorescent lighting. As electric lighting is typically one
of the largest energy users in commercial buildings, these bulbs can result in
significant energy and cost savings. To learn more about energy saving light
bulbs, please click here.
Energy efficient light bulbs include:


Light emitting diodes (LED)



Compact Fluorescent (CFL)



T5 and T8 Fluorescent

Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
program.

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

QUICK LIGHTING GUIDE

Incandescent Lighting



Typically made of white or clear glass with a classic light bulb


shape. Within a few minutes of use the bulb reaches a high surface
temperature.



Energy efficiency: 10-17 lumens/watt, very low



Expected lifespan: 750-2,500 hours



Disposal: These are not recyclable, and can be disposed of with other
solid waste.



The EU Commission has banned incandescent bulbs of 100W and higher


and started switching to more efficient lighting. By 2020, this will save
enough energy to power 11 million households a year, while cutting
average household electricity bills by 25 a year.



Meets TripAdvisor Green Practices Requirement: No

For more information about the incandescent lighting phaseout by the EU


Commission, please click here.

LED Lighting



Similar size and shape to the incandescent bulb and able to use the same
fixtures. These bulbs often have features such as metal cooling fins.



Energy efficiency: 60-92 lumens/watt, highly efficient



Expected lifespan: 25,000-50,000 hours



Disposal: No special disposal requirements



Meets TripAdvisor Green Practices Requirement: Yes

For more information about LED lighting by the EU Commission, please click
here.

10

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Fluorescent Lighting

Detailed Question Guide



A long, cylindrical white bulb which provides fluorescent lighting. Three


types of fluorescent tube bulbs are commonly used today: T5, T8, and
T12. The number next to the T refers to the diameter of the bulb in
eighths of an inch (so a T5 bulb is 5/8 in diameter). The smaller the
diameter, the more efficient the bulb.



Energy efficiency:
T5: ~90 lumens/watt, highly efficient
T8: ~80 lumens/watt, highly efficient
T12: ~50 lumens/watt, moderately efficient



Expected lifespan:
T5: 20,000+ hours
T8: 15,000+ hours
T12: 7,000+ hours



Disposal: Each of these fluorescent tubes contains mercury gas and


should be carefully disposed of at a proper recycling center.



According to the EU Commission, fluorescent bulbs can last between


6,000 and 15,000 hours, depending on type and use. The lifetime for
incandescent light bulbs is only about 1,000 hours.



Meets TripAdvisor Green Practices Requirement:


T5: Yes
T8: Yes
T12: No

11

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFL)

Detailed Question Guide



Spiral shaped white bulb. Uses the same socket style as incandescent
bulbs.



Energy efficiency: 50-70 lumens/watt, highly efficient



Expected lifespan: 10,000 hours



Disposal: Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury gas and must be carefully


disposed of at a proper recycling center.



Meets TripAdvisor Green Practices Requirements: Yes

For more information about compact fluorescent (CFL) lighting by the EU


Commission, please click here.

Metal Halide Bulbs



These bulbs operate by using an electric arc to produce an intense white


light.



Energy efficiency: 70-115 lumens/watt, highly efficient (but should only


be used in outdoor applications and large spaces)



Expected lifespan: 5,000- 20,000 hours



Disposal: These bulbs contain mercury gas and must be carefully


disposed of at a proper recycling center.



Other: It can take up to 10 minutes before producing light upon start


up, so these bulbs are not ideal for spaces which require lights to be
turned on and off frequently. They are best suited for large spaces such
as gymnasiums and parking lots.



Meets TripAdvisor Green Practices Requirement: No

12

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Halogen Light Bulbs

Detailed Question Guide



Commonly has a cone shape and used in spot light applications, but they
are also sold in a style very similar looking to an incandescent bulb.



Energy efficiency: 12-22 lumens/watt, low efficiency



Expected lifespan: 1,000-4,000 hours



Disposal: No special disposal requirements



Meets TripAdvisor Green Practices Requirement: No

For further information about lighting, please click here.


In order to achieve this credit, you need to perform a calculation to verify
that at least 75% of your total lighting is energy efficient. A simple way to
approach this is to estimate the % of energy-efficient bulbs in your guest
rooms, front of house and back of house, and then weight those by the
percentage of the total hotels lighting that they represent. If you have
Microsoft Excel or another spreadsheet software tool, click here for a simple
lighting calculator.
This requirement excludes historical lighting fixtures that may not have energy
efficient bulb replacement options. For the purposes of this calculation,
historical lighting fixtures are defined as the fixtures found in buildings over 75
years old which are original to the building or are integral to the atmosphere
of the property. These may include candelabra bulbs, wall sconces, and
pendant fixtures.
Note that this is a required practice to qualify for the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders
program.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of a lamp inventory including the total number of each type of


installed light bulb in the property. A table format is preferred for this
calculation.

13

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

ENERGY Questions

Fairmont Hotel, San Francisco, CA

E1.
Do at least 90% of your guest rooms have
appliances that meet any of the following
qualifications: EU Energy Label A or better, Nordic
Swan certification, or ENERGY STAR qualification
(e.g. 90% of all guestroom TVs are qualified)?

Appliances that are EU Energy Label Class A or better or ENERGY STAR have
been identified by the EU as meeting stringent energy requirements. Each
product is evaluated based upon its category (e.g., televisions, refrigerators)
and must also meet specific performance standards.
Products that are EU Energy Label rated are identified by the tag (as shown
below). The label is also commonly placed on marketing the brochures and
instructional manuals. To see available EU Energy Label qualified appliances,
please click here.
Appliances which are eligible for credit:


TV



Refrigerator



Other

You may click Other if you have any other EU Energy Label Class A or better
or ENERGY STAR qualified product in at least 90% of guest rooms which
is not listed here. If selected, you will be required to write in the type of
appliance.
point is awarded for each EU Energy Label rated Class A or better or
ENERGY STAR qualified appliance that is found in at least 90% of guest
rooms, up to a maximum of 1.5 points.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. For instance, if you do not have TVs in guest rooms, then the
question of whether you have an energy-efficient TV is not relevant. In this
case, if you select Property does not have [appliance] this question will not
be considered when your final score is calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet showing EU Energy Label


rating, Nordic Swan certification, or ENERGY STAR qualification.



Photographs showing installed equipment.

14

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E2.

Are at least 90% of your guest rooms air


conditioning units rated EU Energy Label Class A or
better, certified by ENERGY STAR or Eurovent?

Detailed Question Guide

Air conditioning units that are EU Energy Label Class A or better, ENERGY
STAR, or Eurovent qualified have been identified by the EU as meeting
stringent energy requirements.
To see available EU Energy Label qualified air conditioning units, please click
here.
point is awarded for having at least 90% of your air conditioning units
rated EU Energy Label A or better, ENERGY STAR, or Eurovent qualified. To
ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant questions.
For instance, if you do not have air conditioning units in guest rooms, then
the question is not relevant. If you select Guest rooms do not have A/C, this
question will not be considered when your final score is calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet showing EU Energy Label


rating, ENERGY STAR, or Eurovent qualification.



Photographs showing installed equipment.

15

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E3A.
Do at least 75% of the laundry washers have any of
the following characteristics (on-site or off-site)?

Detailed Question Guide

For more information on efficient laundry operations, please click here.




Products that are EU Energy Rated A or better can be identified by the label,
which is usually accompanied by the owners manual.



Products that are ENERGY STAR qualified can be identified by their label
(shown below) which is generally found on the product. The label is also
commonly included on marketing brochures and instructional manuals.
To learn more about ENERGY STAR, please click here.



Ozone laundry systems use ozone, generated by passing oxygen through a


high voltage electrical field, to remove insoluble materials from fabrics.
Once injected into the water, ozone reacts chemically with the soils
making them soluble in water. Compared with other conventional
systems, ozonated laundering saves resources by operating at lower
temperatures with fewer rinse cycles, less detergent, and a shorter drying
time. For more information, please click here.

2 points are awarded if either item is selected.


If audited, you may be asked to provide:

E3B.



Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet showing EU Energy Rating


A or better, ENERGY STAR, or ozone laundry system.



Photographs showing installed equipment.



EU Energy Label Class A or better

Do at least 75% of the laundry dryers have any of


the following characteristics (on-site or off-site)?

Products that are EU Energy Rated A or better can be identified by the


label, which is usually accompanied with the owners manual.


I dont use tumble dryers (line dry)

2 points are awarded if any of the above items are selected


If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet showing EU Energy Rating


A or better or ozone dryer system.



Photographs showing installed equipment or clothes hanging to dry.

16

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E4.

Do at least 50% of your exterior windows have the


following characteristics?

Detailed Question Guide

Energy efficient windows provide better insulation and performance than


traditional windows, reducing the amount of energy required to keep the
building at a comfortable temperature. Traditional windows can be a major
source of heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, both of which
cause HVAC systems to use more energy than necessary and increase the
environmental impact of the building.


Double-glazed, or double-paned, windows improve insulation, reducing the


amount of heat loss in the winter.



A Low-Emissivity (Low-E) coating reflects unwanted heat from the sun away
from the building. This helps avoid overheating during summer.



Krypton and Argon gases are used between panes to act as insulation to
reduce the amount of heat loss in the winter.



Triple-glazed, or triple-paned, windows improve insulation, reducing the


amount of heat loss in the winter.



The U-Value measures the rate of heat transfer, indicating how well the
window is insulated. Lower U-values provide better insulation than higher.



I cant do this because of regulations (e.g. historical windows).


Some designated historical properties must follow local or national
regulations related to changing the outside of their building. In certain
cases, this excludes replacing original windows.

Points are awarded on a tiered system for this question, up to a maximum of 2


points. For double-glazing, point is awarded. For Low-E coating or krypton/
gas insulation, 1 point is awarded. For triple-glazing or a U-value less than
.35, 2 points are awarded. To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated
based on relevant questions. Therefore, if you select I cant do this because
of regulation this question will not be considered when your final score is
calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of manufacturer specification sheet showing claimed window


characteristic.



Documentation confirming that property is a designated historical


property and subject to strict window regulations.

17

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E5A.

Are any of your pools/jacuzzis/spas heated?

Detailed Question Guide

Water heaters are used to heat water for pools, hot tubs, and spas. This
uses significant amounts of energy, which can be minimized by using smart
features.
Select yes if any of your pools/spas/jacuzzis are heated. By selecting yes,
you will be eligible to earn up to 1 point from the following question.

E5B.
Do all of the water heaters for your pools/jacuzzis/
spas use solar thermal heating equipment?

Water heaters are used to heat water for pools, jacuzzis, and spas. This
uses significant amounts of energy, which can be minimized by using smart
features. Solar thermal water heating systems capture heat from the sun to
warm the water. They typically consist of black pipes on the roof of a building
or adjacent to the pool which heat water as it passes through by focusing and
storing the suns heat.
Select yes if any of your pools/jacuzzis/or spas are heated. By selecting yes,
you will be eligible to earn up to 1 point. To ensure fairness, properties will
only be evaluated based on relevant questions. Therefore, if you select no
to Filter Question 2 (having on-site pools), all pool-related questions will be
removed from the survey and you will not be required to answer them.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet for the installed solar


thermal heater, or other type of energy efficient heating system



Photographs showing installed equipment.

18

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E6.

Do you use insulating pool covers (including liquid


pool covers) or
jacuzzi covers on all your outdoor
pools/jacuzzis?

Detailed Question Guide

Insulated pool and jacuzzi covers are used to retain heat when the pool
and/or jacuzzi is not in use. As a result, less energy is needed to return water
to the desired temperature when they are ready for use again.
There are several types of covers, including physical covers (typically made of
foam or insulating materials) and liquid covers which are periodically poured
onto the waters surface.
1 point is awarded for using either a pool or jacuzzi cover. To ensure fairness,
properties will only be evaluated based on relevant questions. Therefore, if
you select Property does not have outdoor pools, this question will not be
considered when your final score is calculated. If you do not have any pools
(either indoor or outdoor), please select no to Filter Question 2 (having onsite pools) and all pool-related questions will be removed from the survey.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:

E7A.

Is your propertys indoor cooling setpoint set at


22C or higher?



Copy of the product specification sheet for pool and jacuzzi covers.



Photograph showing the covers used for pools and hot tubs.

Maintaining moderate cooling setpoints during the summer reduces the


amount of energy required for cooling.
1 point is awarded if the building temperature setpoint, while in cooling
mode, is set at or above 22C for the duration of the season.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. Therefore, if you select Property does not have air conditioning
this question will not be considered when your final score is calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative provided by the building engineer or maintenance coordinator


verifying the building cooling setpoint range.

19

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E7B.
Is your propertys indoor heating setpoint set at
22C or lower?

Detailed Question Guide

Maintaining moderate heating setpoints during the winter reduces the


amount of energy required for heating.
1 point is awarded if the building temperature setpoint, while in heating
mode, is set at or below 22C for the duration of the season.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


E8A.
Do your guestrooms have individually controllable
thermostats, so guests can adjust the room
temperature?

Narrative provided by the building engineer or maintenance coordinator


verifying the building heating setpoint range.

Guest-controlled thermostats allow guests to adapt their room temperature


to their own comfort level. However this can lead to wasted energy by guests
cranking up the air conditioning or heat. By limiting guest control to within
designated ranges during winter and summer, you can save energy while still
providing individual control to each guest room.
Select yes if all guest rooms have individually controlled thermostats. By
selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 1 point in the second and third
portions of this question. To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated
based on relevant questions. If you do not have individually controllable
thermostats, select no, and this question will not be considered when your
final score is calculated.

E8B.
Is the minimum possible cooling temperature for
the guest thermostats at 22C or higher?

This limits guest control to within designated ranges, allowing individual


control while maintaining overall energy efficiency.
point is awarded if the building temperature setpoint, while in cooling
mode, is set at or above 22C for the duration of the season. To ensure
fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant questions.
Therefore, if you select Property does not have air conditioning this question
will not be considered when your final score is calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative provided by the building engineer or maintenance coordinator


verifying the building cooling setpoint range.

20

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E8C.

Is the maximum possible heating temperature for


the guest thermostats at 22C or lower?

Detailed Question Guide

This limits guest control to within designated ranges, allowing individual


control while maintaining overall energy efficiency.
point is awarded if the building temperature setpoint, while in heating
mode, is set at or below 22F for the duration of the season.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative provided by the building engineer or maintenance coordinator


verifying the building heating setpoint range.

21

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E9.
Do you have any of the following Heating/
Ventilation Conditioning (HVAC) features which
maximize efficiency?

Detailed Question Guide

HVAC systems handle heating, ventilation, and air conditioning for a building.
Improving the efficiency of your HVAC system can save significant amounts of
energy and money.
Ways of improving HVAC system efficiency include:


Energy Efficient Boilers or Furnaces provide heating for the building. To qualify,
your boiler or furnace should have an efficiency of >88% (as measured
according to EU Directive 92/42/EEC). To learn more about EU Directive
92/42/EEC, click here.



Energy Efficient Heat Pumps provide heating or cooling for the building.
There are several types of heat pumps, including ground source and air
source heat pumps. To qualify, your heat pump should meet at least one
of the following characteristics:
EU Energy Rating A or better, Ecolabel, ENERGY STAR, or Eurovent
certification. To learn more, click here.



Energy Efficient Chillers provide cool air or water for the building. To qualify,
your chiller should be Eurovent A qualified or equivalent. For more
information, click here.



ENERGY STAR qualified or variable speed ventilating fans allow HVAC fans
to operate at variable speeds which improves energy efficiency. Typically
these fans only operate at full speed when turned on, which leads to
inefficiencies and wasted energy. For more information, please click here.

For more information on ways to improve energy efficiency by the Carbon


Trust, please click here.
(continued on next page)

22

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E9.
Do you have any of the following Heating/
Ventilation Conditioning (HVAC) features which
maximize efficiency?
(continued)

Detailed Question Guide

1 point is awarded for each of the above components found at your facility,
up to a maximum of 3 points. To ensure fairness, properties will only be
evaluated based on relevant questions. In this case, if you select Property does
not have air conditioning, this question will not be considered when your
final score is calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


If boiler or furnace: Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet


confirming that the equipment has an AFUE of 88% or higher. Photos of
the installed equipment.



If heat pump: Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet confirming


that the equipment either has an EU Energy Rating A or better, Ecolabel,
ENERGY STAR, or Eurovent qualification. Photos of the installed
equipment.



If chiller: Copy of the manufacturers specification sheet confirming that


the equipment meets Eurovent A qualification or equivalent. Photos of
the installed equipment.



If variable speed fans: Narrative provided by the building engineer or


maintenance coordinator verifying that variable speed ventilating drives
are used in most spaces. Copy of manufacturers specification sheet for
variable or multi-speed fans.

23

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E10.
Do you have a preventative maintenance plan
which checks, at least quarterly, that building
energy and water equipment (e.g. HVAC, lighting,
plumbing fixtures, irrigation systems, etc.) are
functioning properly?

Detailed Question Guide

Having a preventative maintenance program is a critical component of


maintaining an efficient building. This should include checking building
systems for optimal efficiency (e.g. refrigeration leaks, HVAC filters) and
ensuring staff are following operational policies (e.g. towel & linen reuse,
recycling). A preventative maintenance program can reduce energy and water
usage, as well as lengthen the lifespan of various building systems. To use the
walk-around checklist developed by the Carbon Trust, please click here.
1 point is awarded if the above is met.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


E11A.
Have you had an energy audit or received an
Energy Performance Certificate in the past 5 years?

Copy of preventative maintenance plan including descriptions of


each preventative maintenance measure and schedule for conducting
preventative maintenance checks.

An energy audit or building retrocommissioning identifies inefficiencies in the


building (e.g., leaking windows, inefficient furnace), suggests improvements,
and determines potential energy savings and payback periods (how long it
will take to recoup invested capital through energy savings).
Energy audits are performed by a licensed technician, who evaluates the
buildings energy performance and provides a suggested list of energy
efficiency improvements. Different levels of audits have varying levels of
investigation. According to the EU Directive 2010/31/EU, Energy Performance
Certificates (EPCs) should include reference values, such as current legal
standards, in order to make it possible for consumers to compare and assess
energy performance. They should also be accompanied by recommendations
for cost-effective improvement options to raise the performance and rating of
the building.
Select yes if you have had an energy audit or received an Energy
Performance Certificate in the past 5 years. By selecting yes, you will be
eligible to earn up to 5 points in the following portions of this question.

24

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E11B.
Which process did you participate in?

Detailed Question Guide

Energy audits are performed by a licensed technician who evaluates the


buildings energy performance and provides a suggested list of energy
efficiency improvements. Different levels of audits exist which require different
levels of investigation. Energy audits should be performed by the following
organizations:


Your local utility provider may offer free or discounted energy audits to
ensure optimal building efficiency.



Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) should include reference values, such


as current legal standards, in order to make it possible for consumers
to compare and assess energy performance, as per the 2010 Energy
Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). This certificate should also
be accompanied by recommendations for cost-effective improvement
options to raise the performance and rating of the building. To learn
more about this directive by the European Commission, please click here.



Other. If your energy audit was performed by a professional organization


not listed above, you may select other if the analysis included a thorough
investigation of the electrical lighting and HVAC systems. Please explain
the process you went through (i.e. write-in).

1 point is awarded for selecting utility program or writing in the type of


energy audit performed. If selecting Energy Performance Certificate, up to 2
points will be awarded in E11C.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


If Utility or Other selected: Copy of energy audit report, and/or retrocommissioning summary report completed by qualified commissioning
agent.



If Energy Performance Certificate is selected: Copy of the energy


performance certificate including the date and level achieved.

25

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E11C.
What level Energy Performance Certificate did you
receive?

E11D.
Have you implemented at least two energy saving
measures as a result of the audit?

E11E.
Please describe both energy saving measures you
have implemented as a result of the audit.

Detailed Question Guide

Energy Performance Certificates are awarded on a scale of A (more energy


efficient) to G (least energy efficient).
2 points are awarded for achieving A level, 1 point is awarded for achieving B
level.

Your energy audit identifies different sources of inefficiencies in your building.


Select yes if you have made at least two energy savings measures as a result
of the audit/ retrocommissioning. By selecting yes, you will be eligible to
earn up to 2 points in the final portion of this question.

2 points are awarded if you provide a written description of the two energy
savings measures implemented at your property.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative from the building engineer, or other qualified individual,


describing the energy saving measures implemented as a result of the
audit or retrocommissioning investigations.



Photographs of each measure implemented (where applicable).

26

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E12.
Do you use automatic lighting controls such as
occupancy/daylighting sensors or timers, which
cover at least 50% of the surface area for each of
the following locations?

Detailed Question Guide

Advanced lighting controls automatically turn the lights off and are based
upon room occupancy and daylight levels. This saves energy by turning off
lights when they are not needed.
Types of lighting controls include:


Occupancy sensors, which detect when someone has entered a room


and keeps the lights on until the person has left. These operate by using
technologies such as infrared light (motion detectors) or carbon dioxide
sensors.



Daylight sensors, which measure the amount of natural daylight in the


space and can either dim the lights or turn them off altogether if the
daylight levels are sufficient.



Timers, which are programmed to turn on and off at a certain time of the
day.

For more information on efficient lighting systems, please click here.


These sensors can be used in:


Front of house spaces including the lobby, corridors, and other public
spaces.



Back of house spaces including storage areas, kitchens, and mechanical


rooms.



Building exterior spaces including walkways, parking areas, courtyards, and


other outdoor spaces.

point is awarded for each location on your property that uses any type of
lighting control (covering at least 50% of the surface area of the location), up
to a maximum of 1 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of manufacturers specification sheets for installed sensors/timers.



Photographs showing installed sensors/timers.

27

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E13.
Do at least 90% of your guest rooms have
mechanisms (such as occupancy sensors or a
keycard master switch) which automatically do the
following when the room is unoccupied?

Detailed Question Guide

Guest rooms which use systems to detect occupancy (e.g. infrared motion
detectors, door sensors) can automatically turn off electricity sources when a
guest leaves the room.
Types of mechanisms:


Keycard master switches are located next to the guestroom door. A


keycard must be inserted to a slot to turn on the rooms power sources.
When the user leaves the room, the keycard is removed and power
sources are turned off automatically.



Infrared motion sensors perform a similar function by detecting when a


guest enters or leaves a room by using infrared light.



Door sensors can work in conjunction with wireless motion sensors to


detect if a guest is present in the room.

Actions performed by these switches & sensors:




Turn Off Lights



Turn Off Electronics (e.g. TV)



Open/Close Blinds



Return Heating/ Cooling Temperature to Original Setpoints

point is awarded for each of the above actions performed by guest room
mechanisms, up to a maximum of 2 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of manufacturers specification sheet for installed master switch


and narrative describing the guestroom features that are controlled (e.g.
lights, plug loads, temperature setpoint, etc).

28

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E14.
Does your building have any of the following smart
design strategies which reduce energy use for
heating and cooling?

Detailed Question Guide

Smart design strategies (also known as passive design features) are building
characteristics that take advantage of the sun and other natural elements to
heat, cool, and ventilate the building without the use of energy. This reduces
the buildings overall energy usage and lowers carbon emissions.
Smart design strategies include:


South facing overhangs which blocks the suns heat from the building during
the summer months (keeping the building cool) while allowing it during
the winter months (naturally warming the building).



South facing tree shading which blocks the sun with leaves and needles
during the summer. During winter, the leaves and needles die off and thin
out allowing the suns heat into the building.



Window films/tinting which reduce the amount of the suns heat from
entering the building. Additional benefits may include reduced glare and
improved weather protection.



Other passive cooling strategies can either reflect the suns heat or move warm
air out of the building. An example of this strategy is stack ventilation,
which draws hot air up and out of the building while bringing in cooler,
fresher air at occupancy level. Please use the text box to describe the
strategy that your building uses.



Other passive heating strategies use the energy of the sun to warm the
building. An example of this is using concrete walls or floors to store the
warmth from the sun during the day and release it at night, warming
the building with minimal HVAC. Please use the text box to describe the
strategy that your building uses.

1 point is awarded for each smart design strategy selected, up to a maximum


of 3 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


If south facing overhangs: Photograph showing south facing roof


overhangs.



If south facing tree shading: Photograph showing south facing tree


shading.



If window films/tinting: Copy of manufacturers specification sheet


showing the tint or film product that has been applied to windows.



If other passive cooling strategies: Narrative and photographs explaining/


showing passive cooling strategies.



If other passive heating strategies: Narrative and photographs explaining/


showing passive heating strategies.

29

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E15A.
Do you have any of the following on-site renewable
electricity-generating technologies?

Detailed Question Guide

On-site electricity generating technologies provide electricity for use on the


property, and, in some cases, to be sold back to the grid. These clean energy
sources significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to grid based
electricity (commonly produced by coal & gas powered plants), and minimize
energy losses from electricity transmission.

RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY-GENERATING TECHNOLOGIES:



Solar Photovoltaic Panels provide onsite generation of electricity for the


building. These panels are typically found on the roof of a building or
other outdoor structure. PV panels produce electricity by converting light
energy into DC power. For more about solar PV panels, please click here.



Wind Turbines generate electricity from the wind passing through turbine
blades. For commercial use, they are typically located on the roof of a
property. For more information about wind turbines, please click here.

30

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

E15B.
If yes, what % of electricity do these technologies
contribute to the total annual property use?

Detailed Question Guide

To determine the percentage of electricity generated from on-site renewable


systems, measure the amount of electricity generated from on-site renewable
sources for the past year, and divide this by the total electricity usage for the
past year.
Points are awarded based on the percentage of all electricity use generated by
renewable sources, up to a maximum of 10 possible points. Points awarded
are as follows:


1%-5%: 4 points



6%-10%: 5 points



11%-15%: 6 points



16%-20%: 7 points



21%-25%: 8 points



26%-30%: 9 points



31%+: 10 points

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




E16.
Do you have any of the following on-site heating/
cooling technologies?

Documentation confirming the total rated capacity of the renewable


generation system, a photograph of the installed system and copies of
monthly energy bills for 12 continuous months showing total utilities
purchased. These bills will be used to verify the percentage of total annual
energy use that is fed by renewable energy.

On-site clean energy heating and cooling systems have a significantly lower
environmental footprint than traditional heating and cooling systems, which
use furnaces or electricity powered by fossil fuels (oil, gas, or coal).

31

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

RENEWABLE HEATING AND COOLING TECHNOLOGIES:



Solar Hot Water systems, also known as solar thermal systems, use the heat
from the sun to heat water for the building. The most common type
uses long, dark tubes (called evacuated tubes) which are mounted on the
roof of the building. The sun heats up water which passes through these
tubes creating warm water and reduces the need for electric hot water
heaters. For more information about solar hot water systems, please click
here.



Geothermal systems use the Earth as a means to heat and cool the building.
There are two types of systems:
A geothermal heat pump (also known as ground source heat pumps or
geo-exchange system) uses the ground as a storage medium to store
unwanted heat in the summer and extract that heat in the winter. This
type of system uses underground tubes to pump fluid to and from the
ground.
Direct Exchange (also known as hydrothermal) systems use very deep
wells drilled into hot, dry rock formations to generate steam for
electricity or heating. For more information about geothermal energy,
please click here.



Waste Heat Recovery Units, or Energy Recovery Heat Exchangers recover waste
heat from refrigeration, air conditioning, and air compressor systems. The
heat is then redistributed to other sections of the building which require
heating. For more information about waste heat recovery, please click
here.



Combined heat and power (CHP) systems, also known as a back of house
cogeneration system, is typically used in larger properties. These systems
simultaneously produce electricity and heat for the building, leading to
higher rates of efficiency than conventional systems that separate these
two functions. For more information about CHP, please click here.

4 points are awarded for each type of clean energy heating and cooling
system used at your property.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the manufacturer specification sheet for each clean energy


heating and cooling system.



Photographs showing each installed system.

32

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

WATER Questions

InterContinental , Boston, MA

W1A.
Do you track water on a regular basis (at least
every 3 months)?

Water tracking involves measuring and recording your propertys water use.
Tracking helps identify the main uses of water, opportunities for efficiency
improvements, and records progress over time.
The following information should be measured and documented by the
tracking system used:
1. Amount of water used per month (liters).
2. Time period in which the water was consumed. (e.g., June 1- June 30,
2014).
3. If possible, whether the water being used is for indoor purposes (e.g.
indoor fixtures, kitchen uses) or outdoor purposes (e.g. landscaping).
Select yes if you track your water usage regularly (at least quarterly). By
selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 1 point in the second portion of
this question.

33

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

W1B.
What do you use for a water tracking system?

Detailed Question Guide

For more information on measuring the flow of your water fixtures, please
click here.


Utility tracking tools are sometimes offered by your local utility provider
to help you track your water consumption.



Other Tracking Tools

The following information should be measured and documented in the


water tracking system used (at least quarterly):
1. Amount of water used per month (liters).
2. Time period of which the water was consumed. (e.g., June 1- June 30,
2014).
3. If possible, whether the water being used is for indoor purposes (e.g.
indoor fixtures, kitchen uses) or outdoor purposes (e.g. landscaping).
1 credit is awarded for selecting any of the above tracking tools. You may
select more than one option, but there is a maximum question score of 1
point.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Summary of total indoor and outdoor water use (e.g. interior water
fixtures and landscape irrigation) for the entire site spanning a continuous
12 month period. Aggregated data will suffice.

34

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

W2.
Do at least 90% of your guestroom bathroom
fixtures meet the following standards for flow (liters
per minute - LPM) and flush (liters per flush - LPF)
rates?

Detailed Question Guide

There are two types of water fixtures, flush and flow, and the efficiency for
each is calculated differently. Flush fixtures, such as toilets and urinals, are
evaluated based upon how much water is used each time they are flushed:
liters per flush (LPF). Flow fixtures, such as faucets and shower heads, are
evaluated based upon how much water is used per each minute of use at
maximum flow rate: liters per minute (LPM). Using water-efficient fixtures (also
known as low-flow fixtures) significantly reduces water consumption.


Toilets: 4.5 LPF (Dual flush toilets and composting toilets also meet this
credit). For more information on low flow toilets, please click here.



Faucets: 6 LPM or less (the use of faucet aerators to lower the amount
of water used is acceptable provided requirements are met). For more
information on low flow faucets, please click here.



Showerhead: 6 LPM or less. For more information on low flow


showerheads, please click here.

2 points are awarded for each qualified fixture that is standard in each guest
room, up to a maximum of 6. To ensure fairness, properties will only be
evaluated based on relevant questions. Therefore, if you select Property does
not have private bathrooms, this question will not be considered when your
final score is calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of manufacturers specification sheet showing installed fixture flow/


flush rates.



Photographs showing installed fixtures.

35

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

W3.
Do at least 90% of your back of house and public
restroom fixtures meet the following standards for
flow (liters per minute- LPM) and flush (liters per
flush- LPF) rates?

Detailed Question Guide

There are two types of water fixtures, flush and flow, and the efficiency for
each is calculated differently. Flush fixtures, such as toilets and urinals, are
evaluated based upon how much water is used each time they are flushed:
liters per flush (LPF). Flow fixtures, such as faucets and shower heads, are
evaluated based upon how much water is used per each minute of use at
maximum flow rate: liters per minute (LPM). Using water-efficient fixtures
(also known as low-flow fixtures) significantly reduces water consumption.


Toilets: 4.5 LPF (Dual flush toilets and composting toilets also meet this
credit). For more information on low flow toilets, please click here.



Faucets: 6 LPM or less (the use of faucet aerators to lower the amount
of water used is acceptable provided requirements are met). For more
information on low flow faucets, please click here.



Urinals: 2 LPF or less.

1 point is awarded for each fixture that is standard in back of house and
public restrooms, up to a maximum of 2 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of manufacturers specification sheet showing installed fixture flow/


flush rates.



Photographs showing installed fixtures.

36

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

W4A.
Do you irrigate any of your outdoor landscaped
areas?

Detailed Question Guide

Irrigation is commonly used by properties which dont receive adequate


rainfall to maintain landscaping features. Irrigation is usually done through
the use of sprinklers, although there are also other methods for large-scale
irrigation.
Select yes if your property has landscape irrigation. By selecting yes, you will be
eligible to earn up to 1 point in the second portion of this question.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. Therefore, if you select Property does not irrigate landscaping, this
question will not be considered when your final score is calculated. If you do
not have any landscaped area, then select no to Filter Question 3 (having
landscaping), and all landscaping-related questions will be removed from the
survey.

37

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

W4B.
If so, do you use smart irrigation controls or
methods, such as moisture sensors or weatherbased controls?

Detailed Question Guide

Smart irrigation controls are designed to only water vegetation when it


is necessary (for instance, a smart irrigation controller would not water
vegetation after rain showers). This improves water efficiency and can lead to
healthier plants.
There are several types of smart irrigation controls:


Moisture sensor systems measure the moisture content of the soil in multiple
locations to determine optimal watering time.



Weather-based irrigation sensors have an on-site weather station that provides


real time weather data.



Off-site data systems use a radio, internet, or phone connection to


communicate with a local weather station or centralized data center. This
type of system often requires a monthly subscription.



Historical controls use past weather and water use data for your area to
determine how much water is required for irrigation. This system is not
perfect, but will still lead to significant savings when compared to nonsmart irrigation controls.



Historical controls with a temperature sensor. This system uses historical weather
and water use data to determine initial watering time, and then finetunes it by comparing the historical temperature data and the actual
temperature. If the temperature is higher, watering time is increased. If
the temperature is lower, watering time is decreased.

1 point is awarded if your property uses any of the listed smart irrigation
controls.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of manufacturers specification sheet showing installed moisture


sensor or weather-based controls.

38

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

W5.
Do you use alternative water sources (reclaimed
water, grey water,
collected/stored rainwater, condensate) for any of
the following applications?

Detailed Question Guide

Alternative water sources make use of water from places other than the water
grid, and are used in non-potable applications such as landscaping, flushing
toilets, and fire suppression systems. These sources help conserve water, lower
energy usage from water treatment facilities, and reduce stress on sewage
infrastructure.


Reclaimed water, also known as grey water, is recycled wastewater


generated from laundry, showers, and lavatory sinks that is treated
and reused. Greywater is captured separately from blackwater (water
from toilets and kitchen sinks) and treated on-site instead of being sent
to a municipal combined sewage treatment facility. Generally, on-site
greywater treatment is fairly minimal and does NOT result in potable
(drinkable) water. To prevent consumption, treated greywater is often
dyed and signage may be placed in restrooms.



Rainwater can be captured via rooftop and underground systems which


channel the water into a cistern for later use.



Condensate is generated as a byproduct of HVAC systems when cooling air


or water.

2 points are awarded for each instance where alternative water is used in your
facility, up to a maximum of 4 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:

W6A.
Does your property have a wet or dry cooling
tower as part of the buildings cooling system?



Narrative describing the source of alternative water and the specific


applications for its use by the property.



Photograph showing alternative water distribution system.

A cooling tower is a part of some HVAC systems (usually found on the roof)
which disposes of unwanted heat during summer months. Cooling towers use
large amounts of energy and water, which makes maintaining and optimizing
their performance particularly important.
Select yes if your property has a cooling tower as part of the building HVAC
system. To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. Therefore, if you select Property does not have a cooling tower,
this question will not be considered when your final score is calculated.

39

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

W6B.
Have you taken actions to optimize the energy and/
or water use of your cooling tower operations?

Detailed Question Guide

There are a variety of ways to optimize cooling tower performance, including:




Optimizing the number of cycles of concentration.



Installation of a conductivity controller to automatically control


blowdown.



Installation of flow meters.



Use of acid treatment to prevent buildup of mineral deposits.

For detailed information about how to improve cooling tower efficiency by


the US Department of Energy, please click here.
2 points are awarded if the above has been met.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:

W6C.
Please describe the actions you have taken
(including the use of certified products).



Copy of the cooling tower operations analysis and/or narrative


summarizing the best practices employed to reduce excess water use by
cooling towers.



Photographs showing each measure implemented (where applicable).

Describe the actions you have taken in order to optimize the energy and water
use of your cooling tower.

40

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

PURCHASING Questions

Fairmont Hotel

P1A.
Do you purchase food and beverages with any of
the following certifications?

Food and beverage certification labels confirm that a product was grown in
a way that minimizes environmental and/or social impacts. Environmentallyfocused certifications typically confirm that food was grown organically,
sustainably, and/or without the use of synthetic herbicides and pesticides.
Farming this way has advantages including improving soil quality, supporting
biodiversity, and minimizing pollution. Socially-focused certifications typically
confirm that food was grown under fair conditions with fair wages for
workers.
Certification labels are usually located on the products packaging. Fresh
produce often has a Product Look-Up (PLU) sticker which is placed directly
on the fruit or vegetable (such as a sticker on an apple). The PLU code for
organic produce always begins with the number 9 (e.g., an organic Fuji apple
is 94129, whereas a non-organic Fuji apple is 4129).
The following labels are recognized for credit:


The EU Organic label Euro-Leaf identifies products that are at least 95%
organic. To learn more, please click here.



Rainforest Alliance Certified is an international nonprofit third party label


which audits, verifies, and validates agricultural products from around the
world. To learn more, please click here.



DoC/DoP/IGP/STG Certified labels certify that the product was grown in


a manner which meets environmental and/or social standards, while
respecting revered food-growing techniques. For more information about
this credit, please click here.



Fair Trade is a nonprofit organization which certifies and supports farms in


developing countries to thrive as international businesses. To learn more,
please click here.



Marine Stewardship Council Blue Eco-Label is a nonprofit organization which


certifies sustainable seafood products. To learn more, please click here.



Regionally/Locally Produced food must be grown within 150 kilometers of


your property. For more information on buying local, please click here.



Food grown/produced on site should be grown at your property and be


visible to guests.

(continued on next page)

41

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide



Slow Food is a global, grassroots association that links the pleasure of food
with a commitment to community and the environment. To learn more,
please click here.



Many countries have their own national organic food labels. Please specify
what national organic certified food label your food is certified by.

Select yes if you purchase food or beverages with any of the above labels.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. In this case, if you select no to Filter Question 1 (having an on-site
kitchen), all food-related questions will be removed from the survey and you
will not be required to answer them.

P1B.



If so, what % of your spending in the following


categories is for certified goods?

Fruit & Vegetables includes fresh, frozen, and canned produce (e.g. carrots,
peaches)
If 0%-49% of these products are certified: 0 points
If 50%-74% of these products are certified: point
If 75%+ of these products are certified: 1 point



Meat, Fish, Dairy, and Eggs include milk, cheese, and fresh or processed meat
and fish products.
If 0%-49% of these products are certified: 0 points
If 50%-74% of these products are certified:1 point
If 75%+ of these products are certified: 2 points



Beverages include alcohol and beer, coffee, and tea.


If 0%-49% of these products are certified: 0 points
If 50%-74% of these products are certified: point
If 75%+ of these products are certified: 1 point



Grains & Bread products include flour, cereal, and rice


If 0%-49% of these products are certified: 0 points
If 50%-74% of these products are certified: point
If 75%+ of these products are certified: 1 point



Other
If 0%-49% of these products are certified: 0 points
If 50%-74% of these products are certified: point

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




Documentation from food suppliers verifying the type of sustainable


certification for each qualifying product. Provide explanation of the
calculation that was used to determine the overall percentage of
sustainable food and beverage products purchased for each category.

42

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P2A.
Do you purchase paper products with any of the
following certifications or characteristics?

Detailed Question Guide



The EU Organic label, Euro-Leaf, identifies products that are at least 95%
organic. To learn more, please click here.



Blue Angel is an environmental certification label for products and services.


To learn more, please click here.



Nordic Swan is the official sustainability ecolabel for the Nordic countries,
introduced by the Nordic Council of Ministers. To learn more, please click
here.



Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) is a nonprofit label which certifies wood


products sourced from sustainably harvested forests. Certification factors
include environmentally and socially preferable methods of timber
harvesting. For more information about the FSC, please click here.



The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international


nonprofit label which promotes sustainable forestry management
through independent third party certification. To learn more, please click
here.



Products containing postconsumer recycled (PCR) content are partially or


completely made of recycled material. This reduces waste being sent
to landfills and means that fewer virgin materials are used to make
new products. Products which contain PCR are usually labeled on the
packaging (e.g., contains 50% postconsumer recycled content).



Other

Up to 1 points can be achieved in part B of this question.

43

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P2B.



Toilet/Tissue Paper

If so, what % of your spending in the following


categories is for certified goods?



Office Paper



Other

Detailed Question Guide

If select Toilet/ Tissue Paper or Office paper: 75%-90%: .5 pt, 90%+: 1 point.
If select other: 75%+: points
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copies of invoices, product information sheet, or link to manufacturers


website with:
1. Confirmation of SKU number or product description.
2. Verification of the recycled content used in each product.

P3.

Do you purchase at least 90% (measured by cost)


of your toiletries with at least one of the following
characteristics?



Organic ingredients & products are grown in a way which protects the soil,
minimizes chemical use, and supports biodiversity.



100% biodegradable products break down after they go down the drain,
becoming benign to waterways and marine animals.



Locally produced food is sourced within 150 kilometers of the property.



Products containing at least 50% recycled content reduce the amount of waste
sent to landfills, meaning fewer virgin materials are used to make new
products.



The EU Organic label, Euro-Leaf, identifies products that are at least 95%
organic. To learn more, please click here.

1 point is awarded if at least one of the above characteristics is met for at


least 90% of your toiletries. You may select multiple responses, but there is a
maximum points value of 1 for this question.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of invoices verifying the purchases of organic or biodegradable


products. If recycled packaging is used, state the percentage of preconsumer and/or post-consumer recycled content used in the packaging
material.

44

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P4A.

Do at least 50% of your products for facility


cleaning, laundry, and/or dishwashing have any of
the following certifications?

Detailed Question Guide

Cleaning product certification labels certify that the product has


environmentally preferable characteristics, such as using non-hazardous
chemicals or being biodegradable. These labels are typically found on the
packaging.
The following organizations certify cleaning products:


The EU Ecolabel helps you identify products and services that have a
reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle, from the
extraction of raw material through to production, use and disposal. For
more information, please click here.



Ecocert is an organic certification organization. For more information click


here.



Nordic Swan is a third party label that evaluates products based on their
environmental footprint over the products lifespan. To learn more, please
click here.



Blue Angel is a German certification for products and services that have
environmentally friendly aspects. To learn more, please click here.



Other. If you use products certified by another organization, please select


other and write in the name of the certification label.

Select yes if you purchase products for facility cleaning, laundry, and/or
dishwashing with any of the above certifications.

45

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P4B.
If so, please estimate what percent of your total
cleaning products have these characteristics.

Detailed Question Guide

Points awarded are as follows:




50-74% of all cleaning products are certified: 1 point



75%+ of all cleaning products are certified: 2 points

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




P5.
Do you use dry cleaning solvent substitutes instead
of perchloroethylene (perc) for 100% of your dry
cleaning (on site or offsite)?

Copies of manufacturers specification sheets verifying the green


certifications for cleaning, laundry, and/or dishwashing products
purchased by the property.

Traditional dry cleaning uses perchloroethylene (perc), which has been


identified as a probable carcinogen that, if disposed of improperly, may
cause groundwater and soil contamination. There are now alternatives to
perchloroethylene, such as silicone and hydrocarbon based solvents. For more
information about perchloroethylene, please click here.
1 point is awarded if any alternative dry cleaning solvents are used for all dry
cleaning, whether on-site or off-site.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. In this case, if you select Property does not offer dry cleaning
to guests, this question will not be considered when your final score is
calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative and product information sheets verifying the solvents used for
dry cleaning.

46

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P6A.

Do you have furniture with any of the following


characteristics?

Detailed Question Guide

Purchasing environmentally preferable furniture helps to reduce the amount of


water and energy in the manufacturing process, the amount of waste going to
landfills, and the use of potentially hazardous chemicals during production.
Characteristics of environmentally preferable furniture include:


Recycled Content takes materials previously used in other products and


recycles them into new products.



Urea-Formaldehyde Free means the product does not use ureaformaldehyde, which is often used to bond wood products (such as MDF
fiberboard or plywood), but has been linked to potential health risks.



Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) is a nonprofit label which certifies wood


products sourced from sustainably harvested forests. Certification factors
include environmentally and socially preferable methods of timber
harvesting. For more information about the FSC, please click here.



Salvaged or Historic Materials are sourced from existing buildings, which


are usually scheduled for demolition, and then repurposed in another
building.



Locally produced (within 750 kilometers) are entirely sourced from within 750
kilometers of the property. This includes wood harvesting, processing,
manufacturing, and installation.



The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international


nonprofit label which promotes sustainable forestry management
through independent third party certification. To learn more, please click
here.



Nordic Swan is the official sustainability ecolabel for the Nordic countries,
introduced by the Nordic Council of Ministers. To learn more, please click
here.

Select yes if you purchase furniture with any of the above characteristics. By
selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 4 points in the second portion
of this question.

47

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P6B.
If so, please estimate what percent of your total
furniture has at least one of these characteristics.

Detailed Question Guide

Points awarded are as follows, up to a maximum of 4 points:




10-24%: 1 point



25%-49%: 2 points



50%-74%: 3 points



75%+: 4 points

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




Narrative describing the sustainable attributes of furniture. Provide


documentation from the supplier verifying any third party sustainability
certifications (if applicable).

48

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P7A.

Do you have flooring/carpeting with any of the


following characteristics?

Detailed Question Guide

Environmentally preferable flooring has features that reduce its environmental


impact. These features can help to reduce the amount of water and energy
used in the manufacturing process, waste sent to landfill (if flooring is reusable
or replaceable), and the use of potentially hazardous chemicals.
Flooring characteristics that are recognized include:


Urea-Formaldehyde Free means the product does not use urea- formaldehyde,
which is often used to bond wood products (such as MDF fiberboard or
plywood), but has been linked to potential health risks.



Recycled Content takes materials previously used in other products and


recycles them into new products.



Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) is a nonprofit label which certifies wood


products sourced from sustainably harvested forests. Certification factors
include environmentally and socially preferable methods of timber
harvesting. For more information about the FSC, please click here.



Salvaged or Historic Materials are sourced from existing buildings, which


are usually scheduled for demolition, and then repurposed in another
building.



The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international


nonprofit label which promotes sustainable forestry management through
independent third party certification. To learn more, please click here.



Locally produced (within 750 kilometers) are entirely sourced from within 750
kilometers of the property. This includes wood harvesting, processing,
manufacturing, and installation.

Select yes if your flooring has any of these characteristics. By selecting yes, you
will be eligible to earn up to 2 points in the second portion of this question.

P7B.
If so, please estimate what percent of your total
flooring/carpeting has at least one of these
characteristics.

Points awarded are as follows, up to a maximum of 2 points:




50-74%: 1 point



75%+: 2 points

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




Narrative describing the sustainable attributes of flooring materials.



Documentation from the supplier verifying any third party sustainability


certifications (if applicable).

49

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

P8.
Do at least 90% of your guestroom bathrooms
have refillable dispensers for liquid toiletries (soap,
shampoo, conditioner)?

Detailed Question Guide

Refillable dispensers create less waste than disposable amenities, as they can
be refilled when necessary rather than being replaced for every guest visit.
2 points are awarded if refillable dispensers for soap, shampoo, and
conditioner are used in at least 90% of guest rooms.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. In this case, if you select I do not have guest bathrooms this
question will not be considered when your final score is calculated.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Photograph showing refillable dispensers for guest amenities.

50

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

WASTE Questions

Distrikt Hotel, New York, NY

Ws1A.

Do you track your total quantity of waste on an


ongoing basis (at least every 3 months)?

A waste tracking tool is used to measure the waste and track trends over
time, and to identify areas for improvement. Once areas of inefficiency have
been identified, it is then possible to begin to reduce waste and lower costs
associated with waste management.
The following information should be tracked:
1. The amount of waste generated (measured in volume (m3) or weight
(kg.)).
2. Time period over which the waste was generated (e.g., June 1- June 30,
2014).
3. If possible, the sources of waste in the building, and the amount of waste
generated by each source (e.g., food waste, recyclables).
Select yes if you use a tracking tool which tracks at least the above numbers
(1) and (2). By selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 1 point in the
second portion of this question.

Ws1B.

What do you use for a waste tracking system?

1 point is awarded if any waste tracking tool is used.


If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Summary of monthly waste quantities over a continuous 12-month


period.

51

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Ws2.
Have you conducted a waste audit?

Detailed Question Guide

A waste audit is an in-depth assessment of the property which identifies


and analyzes the causes and types of waste, waste-handling processes, and
identifies opportunities for improvement.
Waste audits can be performed either in-house or by a third-party
organization. If performed in-house, employees should receive proper
training and equipment to minimize health hazards. Two objectives should be
considered when performing a waste audit:


The composition and quantities of waste being generated, to establish an


initial baseline for future comparison.



Opportunities for improving waste management and recycling.

1 point is awarded if a waste audit has been performed.


If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Ws3A.
Is at least 25% of your total waste (measured in
volume or weight) diverted away from landfills
and waste incinerators (ie. recycled, reused, or
composted)?

Copy of the waste audit summary report.

Waste diversion is the amount of waste that is recycled or reused rather than
being sent to a landfill or incinerated. Landfills can pose environmental risks
such as contributing to climate change, air pollution, and adverse effects to
human health.
To determine your diversion rate, you need to track what quantity of waste
is sent to recycling, landfill, composted, or repurposed. Be sure to track your
diversion rate using consistent metrics (e.g., volume using cubic meters (m3),
weight using kilograms (kg.)).
Use the following calculation to determine your waste diversion rate:


(Total recycling + Total compost + Total repurposed) divided by (Total


Waste)

Select yes if you divert at least 25% of waste from landfills or incinerators. By
selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 4 points in the second portion
of this question.

52

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Ws3B.

If so, please estimate what percentage.

Detailed Question Guide

Points awarded are as follows, up to a maximum of 4 points:




25%- 49%: 1 point



50%- 74%: 2 points



75%- 89%: 3 points



90%+: 4 points

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




Ws4.

Do you recycle at least 90% of any of the following


items?

Narrative describing how waste is diverted from the landfill. Copy of waste
diversion report showing the percentage of waste diverted away from
the landfill or incinerators. The report must cover a continuous 12-month
period.

Many unusual items can be recycled through specialist recycling organizations


or municipal facilities. Applicable items:
Applicable items:


Used Mattresses



Used Cooking Oil (for biodiesel)



Furniture



Flooring



Other

point is awarded for each item selected which is recycled at least 90% of the
time, up to a maximum of 2 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of waste diversion report or narrative provided by the waste hauler


verifying the types of recycled waste streams.

53

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Ws5.
Do you have a system that collects and safely
disposes of or recycles the following hazardous
materials?

Detailed Question Guide

Items that contain hazardous chemicals and heavy metals should not be
sent to landfills. Instead, they should be processed by appropriate recycling
facilities.
An effective hazardous material recycling policy should:


Identify all hazardous waste which may be generated by the property.



Implement a system to carefully collect hazardous waste.



Implement a system to properly dispose of or recycle the hazardous


waste.

Items which should be included in this plan include:




Paints



Coatings



Printer Cartridges



Electronics



Batteries



Fluorescent Lightbulbs



Other

To learn more about how to properly dispose of light bulbs, please click here.
point is awarded for each hazardous waste item which is included in the
plan and recycled, up to a maximum of 2 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative including a description of the hazardous material recycling/


disposal program including details on the types of materials that are
processed, photographs of the on-site waste collection/storage area, and
a list containing the names of each off-site waste processing facility.

54

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Ws6.

For guests who are dining at your property, do you


use at least 90% reusable food service items (i.e.
crockery, cutlery, water jugs)?

Detailed Question Guide

Reusable food items are durable (e.g. ceramic) plates, cutlery, and other items
that can be washed and reused for serving food. Disposable food service
items made of plastics and polystyrene foam are often non-recyclable or are
recycled at low rates, leading them to end up in landfills or be incinerated. This
question relates to in-property dining, where guests can eat one or more meals
a day on the premises.
When estimating this figure, exclude large functions such as conferences or
other events not directly related to the guests stay at the hotel.
For more information on effective materials reuse, please click here.
2 points are awarded if at least 90% of food items are served with reusable
food service items.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. In this case, if you select Property does not have in-house dining,
this question will not be considered when your final score is calculated. If you
do not have any food service at all, select no to Filter Question 1 (having an
on-site kitchen), and all kitchen-related questions will be removed from the
survey.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copies of invoices verifying the purchase of reusable food service items.

55

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Ws7A.



Do you regularly (at least quarterly) donate leftover


materials such as toiletries, food, furniture, or
electronics to charitable organizations, or firms
which re-use/re-process them?

Detailed Question Guide

Donating and re-using materials extends their life and reduces the
production of new goods. Many organizations such as homeless shelters
and the Salvation Army are willing to take leftover supplies and give
them to disadvantaged people. In addition, there are reprocessing
organizations such as Clean the World which take leftover soap slivers,
reprocess them, and then donate them to the those in need. Finally, it is
possible in some states to donate excess food to food banks or charities.
Regulations on donations vary, so check with your local authorities to
understand which items can be donated.

1 point is awarded if you regularly donate leftover materials to charitable


organizations.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Ws7B.

Narrative describing donation program including a description of the


items donated as well as the recipients.

Please provide a written narrative of the organizations that you work with.

If so, please tell us which organizations you work


with.

56

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Ws8A.



Composting On-site

Do you dispose of your organic waste through any


of the following methods?



Composting Off-site

Detailed Question Guide

Composting turns organic matter such as food and yard waste into
nutrient-rich fertilizer. This can be done on-site or taken off-site for
processing by a compost hauler. Composting reduces the amount
of waste sent to landfills, and instead re-purposes it to be used to
improve soil and garden quality.
To compost, organic matter such as food waste and yard waste is
gathered and placed inside a compost bin. Two types of waste input
are necessary for successful composting: green stuff (e.g., fruit,
vegetables, grass clippings), which is high in nitrogen and which
activates the heat for the process, and brown stuff (e.g., dead plants,
old flowers), which is high in carbon and keeps everything firm.
Other variables such as air, temperature, water, and starter compost
(this helps to start the compost cycle more quickly) also need to be
controlled.
For more information on composting, please click here.


Bio-mass Digestors breakdown biodegradable material through anaerobic


digestion. This manages waste efficiently and can also be used as an
energy source.

Select yes if you have a system to compost any types of organic waste. By
selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 3 points in the second portion
of this question.

Ws8B.
If so, which of the following materials do you
process?



Food waste which is compostable includes vegetable and fruit waste,


anything made out of flour, grains, coffee grounds, and eggshells.



Yard waste includes leaves, grass clippings, and dead plants.



Biodegradable products include disposable food service items and packaging,


such as corn-based materials. Always double check that something is
compostable before attempting to compost it.

1 point is awarded for each of the above materials which are composted, up to
a maximum of 3 points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative including a description of the composting program, details on


the types of organic wastes that are composted and a photograph of
composting activities.



Copy of the waste hauling contract verifying that composting services are
being provided.

57

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

SITE Questions

Le Meridien, Cambridge, MA

S1A.
Do you use non-toxic methods to control pests,
minimizing the use of chemicals?

Pest management is the process of dealing with unwanted rodents and insects
such as mice, termites, and ants. Non-toxic pest management reduces pest
numbers to manageable levels while minimizing the use of potentially harmful
chemicals.
Select yes if you have an integrated pest management plan for non-toxic pest
control with less reliance on chemical treatment. By selecting yes, you will be
eligible to earn up to 1 point in the second portion of this question.

S1B.
If so, do you use any of the following approaches
instead of using traditional chemicals?

Environmentally preferable strategies to pest management, often referred to


as Integrated Pest Management, include:


Organic insecticides/biocides are derived from natural plant sources.



Continuous pest monitoring enables precise amounts of chemicals to be used


at specific times.



Traps eliminate the need for pesticides.



Containerized baits are applied in a self contained, enclosed bait station,


minimizing the use and spread of pesticides.



Gels and/or barriers for pests should be used in small cracks and crevices.



Other

point is awarded for each pest management strategy that is performed at


your hotel, up to a maximum of 1 point.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the integrated pest management plan including details about the
non-toxic and/or chemical avoidance measures used to manage pests.

58

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

S2A.
Do you minimize the use of herbicides, pesticides,
and chemicals when maintaining your landscaping?

S2B.
If so, please briefly describe your plan.

Detailed Question Guide

Environmentally preferable landscaping is designed to minimize chemical use,


and is maintained using alternatives such as organic fertilizer and compost.

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




A copy of invoices showing the purchase of organic fertilizer/compost.

1 point is awarded if this is met.

S3.
Is at least 75% of the landscaping on your site
landscaped with plants native to your region?

Native landscaping involves using plants that occur naturally in the propertys
local environment. Because native vegetation can be different for every site,
planting should be considered on a site-by-site basis. When determining what
% of your vegetation is native, you should include all areas of vegetation
including grass, flowers, shrubbery, and trees.
1 point is awarded if 75% of the landscaping on your site (by area) has been
landscaped with plants native to your region.
To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant
questions. In this case, if you select no to Filter Question 3 (having
landscaping), all landscaping-related questions will be removed from the
survey.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative listing the plant types used for landscaping, as well as


confirmation that these plants are native to the region.



Photographs showing all landscaping used on the site.

59

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

S4A.
Do you have any of the following roof types, which
cover at least 10% of your total roof area?

Detailed Question Guide

Traditional roofing materials are dark and absorb the suns energy rather than
reflecting it like undeveloped, vegetated land normally would.
This absorption of heat leads to the urban heat island effect which causes
cities to be generally warmer than surrounding areas. The higher temperature
increases summertime peak energy demand, air conditioning costs, water and
air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. For more information, please
click here.
Buildings can reduce the heat island effect in two ways:


A cool roof uses a highly reflective surface (usually white) which reflects
much of the suns energy, reducing the temperature of the building, and
the heat island effect.



A green roof simulates a natural environment by planting trees, flowers,


shrubbery, and grass on the roof. This naturally reflects sunlight back
into the atmosphere, while improving air quality, managing stormwater,
providing animal habitat, and increasing the insulation value of the roof.
For more information, please click here.

Select cool roof if your building uses cool roofing material for at least 10% of
your roof area. By selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 2 points in
the second portion of this question.
Select green roof if your building uses green roofing material for at least 10%
of your roof area. By selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 4 points
in the second portion of this question.
If you use both, you can select both options.

60

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

S4B.
What percentage of your total roof is covered with
cool roofing?

Detailed Question Guide

Points are determined by the percentage of roof that is covered by cool


roofing. Points are awarded as follows, up to a maximum of 2 points.


10%-24%: point



25-49%: 1 point



50%-74% : 1 points



75%+: 2 points

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




S4C.
What percentage of your total roof is covered with
green roofing?

Photographs showing entire roof area and installed roofing material.

Points are determined by the percentage of roof that is covered by green


roofing. Points are awarded as follows, up to a maximum of 4 points.


10%-24%: 1point



25-49%: 2 point



50%-74% : 3 points



75%+: 4 points

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




Photographs showing entire roof area and installed roofing material.

61

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

S5.
Does your site use any of the following methods to
reduce stormwater runoff?

Detailed Question Guide

Stormwater management aims to reduce flooding that can occur during heavy
rainstorms when sewer systems can become overwhelmed.
This flooding can lead to land erosion and water pollution. Alternative
stormwater management strategies typically involve redirecting water away
from sewers, at least temporarily, and sometimes storing it for later use.
There are many different types of stormwater management systems. Some of
the most common strategies are:


Rainwater collection is done by channeling and collecting rainwater, usually


from a roof, into a storage cistern. It is then reused for non-potable
applications, such as landscaping or flushing toilets (the water may be
treated first). A rain barrel is an example of a rainwater collection and
reuse which can be used for small applications.



Planted Bioswales are long depressions in the ground, generally alongside a


road or the edge of a property, which are planted with vegetation. Their
main purpose is to protect waterways that handle stormwater by slowing
the water, filtering impurities, and cooling the water from the heat picked
up off of the roof or pavement, before releasing it into the stormwater
sewage system.



Raingardens are shallow depressions in the ground planted with native


vegetation. They are similar in appearance to bioswales, but they hold
stormwater runoff while it percolates into the ground, as opposed to
bioswales, which only slow and cleanse stormwater runoff.



Bioretention areas function similar to rain gardens by capturing and treating


stormwater in the ground. However, they are usually larger in scale and
have an underground storm drain.



Permeable Paving allows water to filter directly through the pavers on


sidewalks or roads, unlike traditional pavement or concrete roads, where
rainwater is forced to run off the road into sewer systems. These systems
require periodical maintenance to prevent the system from clogging.

1 point is awarded for each of these types of systems up to a maximum of 2


points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Narrative providing a description of the best practices employed to reduce


stormwater runoff.



Photographs showing each measure.

To ensure fairness, properties will only be evaluated based on relevant


questions. In this case, if you select no to Filter Question 3 (having
landscaping), all landscaping-related questions will be removed from the
survey.

62

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

Detailed Question Guide

EDUCATION & INNOVATION

Ritz Carlton, Charlotte, NC

IE1A.
Do you ask for feedback from guests on your green
practices?

IE1B.
If so, how do you ask for feedback?

Guest feedback on green practices helps property owners to continually


improve services and make sure practices are being put in place by staff.
Select yes if you ask for feedback from guests on your green practices. By
selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 1 point in the second portion
of this question.

Feedback can be generated by:




Online Survey after a guest stay (e.g. via an email)



In-room survey



At check-out (e.g. asked by front desk staff)



Other (Please specify)

1 point is awarded if any of these methods of feedback has been implemented.


You may select more than one method, but the question has a maximum point
value of 1.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the documents used to collect guest feedback on green practices.

63

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE2A.
Do you educate your guests on environmental
issues related to your geographic area (e.g. local
habitats, conservation)?

Detailed Question Guide

Education can help to deepen your guests understanding of their


surroundings and encourage them to reduce their personal footprint.
Educational topics to consider:


Local animal habitats



Native plant species



Resource conservation



Land preservation

Select yes if you educate your guests on local environmental issues. By


selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 1 point in the second portion
of this question.

IE2B.

If so, please explain your education program.

Please write in a description of the ways you provide guests with


environmental education.
1 point will be awarded for doing so.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copies of printed educational material or links to online content.

64

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE3A.
Have you received third party certification from
one of the following certification entities for your
propertys building or operations?

Detailed Question Guide

There are a range of certification programs which certify aspects of a hotels


environmental and/or social footprint.
Recognized certification labels are:


LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) Certification.


For more information, please click here.
IE3B. What level of LEED were you awarded?
If you selected LEED, please select which level you were awarded.
Please note that the level is asked strictly for research purposes and
your response will not affect your score.
Certified
Silver
Gold
Platinum



The Green Key. For more information, please click here.



EU Ecolabel. For more information, please click here.



Travelife. For more information, please click here.


IE3C. What level of Travelife were you awarded?
If you selected Travelife, please select which level you were awarded.
Please note that this question is strictly for research purposes and
your response will not affect your score.
Bronze
Silver
Gold



Green Globe. For more information, please click here.



EarthCheck. For more information, please click here.



EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS). For more information, please


click here.



STI Step: For more information, please click here.



ISO 14001: For more information, please click here.



BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method). For more information, please


click here.



National Certification Program: Please specify what national certification


program that your property participates in.



Other: Please specify your certification label.

65

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE3A.
Have you received third party certification from
one of the following certification entities for your
propertys building or operations?
(continued)

Detailed Question Guide

3 points are awarded if any of the above certifications have been achieved for
your property. If applicable, you may select multiple options, but no additional
points will be awarded. Please note that the level is asked only for research
purposes, and does not award additional points.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the third party certification (e.g. certificate or letter from certifying
body) including level of certification or rating.

66

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE4A.
Do you measure and track the carbon emissions
associated with operating this facility?

Detailed Question Guide

Properties produce carbon emissions in a number of ways: Directly through


refrigerant and fuel leaks, and indirectly through the carbon emissions of
electricity produced off-site. Energy usage is typically the largest single source
of carbon emissions. Carbon dioxide emissions are directly related to the
greenhouse gas effect and global climate change, so reducing emissions
should be a key objective for your property.
Carbon tracking tools track energy sources (e.g., coal, gas) and energy usage
quantities. Using this data, the tool can calculate the total carbon footprint of
the building (tons of CO2 per year).
There are 3 categories of CO2 emissions:


Scope 1: Emissions created directly at the facility (e.g. refrigerant leaks).



Scope 2: Emissions created indirectly from the building related to the


electricity production off-site.



Scope 3: All other emissions related to the building (e.g. transportation).

The following information should be measured and documented in the tracking


system:
1. The total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) related to the operations of your
facility, including scope 1 and scope 2 emissions.
2. Time period in which the energy was consumed (e.g., June 1- June 30,
2014).
1 point is awarded if a carbon tracking tool is being used by this property.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of the greenhouse gas inventory and/or summary report stating the
total emissions for each greenhouse gas scope and source of emissions.

67

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE4B.
If so, do you, or your central corporate organization,
track or report these emissions with any of the
following entities?

Detailed Question Guide

Reporting CO2 emissions helps organizations to monitor national CO2 levels


and track progress over time.
Recognized carbon reporting organizations:


The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is an independent nonprofit organization


working to drive greenhouse gas emissions reductions and sustainable
water use by businesses and cities. For more information, please click
here.



WWF Climate Savers is a program by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) which
aims to cut carbon emissions and spur economic growth. For more
information, please click here.



Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI) was developed by the World Travel
& Tourism Council and is meant to help standardize the way the hotel
sector reports carbon emissions. For more information, please click here.



The Viabono Carbon Footprint helps property owners to track their carbon
footprint and easily determine the average emission rate per night and
guest. For more information, please click here.



Please write in the Other carbon reporting or tracking tool that you use.

1 point is awarded if your property reports its carbon footprint to any of the
above entities.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Copy of greenhouse gas report issued by third party emissions reporting


entity.

68

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE5.



Do you use low VOC paints, primers, adhesives and


sealants?

Detailed Question Guide

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are compounds that are emitted as gases
from many products such as paints, building materials, adhesives, and
office equipment.

Qualifying products are generally labeled as Low-VOC, No-VOC, or VOCFree. The following standards have been adapted from standards established
by the European Commission and U.S. EPA California Air Resources Board.
VOC Levels must be equal to or lower than the following:


Paints:
Flat: < 75 g/L
Non-flat: < 150 g/L



Stains: <150 g/L



Primer: < 50 g/L



Adhesives:
Construction adhesive: <15 g/L
Contact adhesive: <55 g/L
Flexible vinyl adhesive: <70 g/L
General purpose: <10 g/L



Sealants:
Concrete: <100 g/L
Driveway: <50 g/L
Waterproofing: <250 g/L

To learn more about VOC limits, click here.


1 point is awarded if low VOC products are used at your property.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


List of approved paints, primers, adhesives and sealants with the VOC
content in grams/liter or expressed as a % of total weight for each
product.

69

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE6.
Do you offer guests access to charging stations
for electric vehicles, either on-site or within 2
kilometers of the property?

Detailed Question Guide

Electric vehicle charging stations are for guests and employees with electric
cars to charge their car while at the hotel.
Several styles of charging stations exist: Level 1 (120 volt AC), Level 2 (240 volt
AC), and Level 3 (500 volt DC). For the purpose of this question, TripAdvisor
GreenLeaders awards credit for either Level 2 or Level 3 charging stations.
1 point is awarded if any type of electric charging station is available for guest
use on your property or located within 2 kilometers of your property.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


Photograph showing installed electric vehicle charging stations.



Documentation confirming Level 2 or Level 3 Charging Station.

70

Detailed survey guide and audit requirements: Europe

IE7.
Do you encourage the use of alternative
transportation by providing any of the following
services, or helping guests find them locally?

Detailed Question Guide

Providing alternative modes of transportation reduces guests reliance on cars


and encourages guests to explore the surrounding area.


Bicycle rental



Assistance for guests to use public transportation (e.g. providing maps)



Shuttles to public transportation hubs



Other

1 point is awarded if you encourage alternative energy use. There is a


maximum score of 1 point for this question.
If audited, you may be asked to provide:


IE8A.
Do you participate in any initiatives related to
local conservation or biodiversity protection?
(e.g. restoration of woodlands, fundraising for
environmental efforts, etc.)

Copy or photographs of promotional material for guests encouraging


alternative transportation options.

Initiatives related to conservation for local habitats, landscapes, and biodiversity


can help preserve a healthy ecosystem while maintaining your area as a tourist
destination.
Select yes if you participate in initiatives related to local conservation or
biodiversity protection. By selecting yes, you will be eligible to earn up to 1
point in the second portion of this question.

IE8B.

1 point is awarded if you participate in any such initiative.

Please describe how you participate in initiatives


related to local conservation or biodiversity
protection.

If audited, you may be asked to provide:




Narrative describing local conservation efforts participated in and the form


of participation (e.g. hours spent, financial donation, etc.).

71

You might also like