Finding a place to stay is one of the biggest decisions travelers make — not just for comfort, but for the impact it can have on the planet. Your choice of accommodation influences energy and water consumption, waste generation, and support (or lack thereof) for local communities. Fortunately, a growing number of hotels, guesthouses, and lodges are embracing sustainable practices.
But how do you know if a place is truly eco-friendly and not just using “green” language for marketing? In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify genuine sustainable accommodation, what certifications to look for, and the questions to ask before booking.
Why Eco-Friendly Accommodation Matters
The hospitality industry is a major contributor to global emissions and waste. Hotels often consume large amounts of energy for heating, air conditioning, and lighting, while also generating significant plastic and food waste. In popular destinations, unsustainable tourism can strain local resources, pollute natural environments, and disrupt communities.
Choosing an eco-conscious place to stay helps:
- Reduce your environmental footprint
- Support local economies and ethical labor practices
- Preserve natural and cultural heritage
- Encourage the industry to adopt better standards
Responsible lodging isn’t about sacrificing comfort — it’s about ensuring your presence has a positive impact.
Greenwashing vs. Real Sustainability
Not all “eco” claims are genuine. Many accommodations promote themselves as green while doing little beyond encouraging guests to reuse towels. This is known as greenwashing — the use of marketing to falsely appear environmentally responsible.
To avoid falling for it, look beyond buzzwords and check for specific practices, transparency, and third-party certifications.
Key Features of Truly Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Here are some concrete elements to look for when assessing whether a property is genuinely sustainable:
1. Energy Efficiency
- Use of renewable energy sources (solar panels, wind, hydro)
- LED lighting and motion-sensor systems
- Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems
- Building design that reduces energy consumption (passive cooling, insulation)
2. Water Conservation
- Low-flow showers and toilets
- Rainwater harvesting or greywater recycling systems
- Water-efficient landscaping (e.g. native, drought-resistant plants)
- Clear efforts to reduce unnecessary water usage in laundry and cleaning
3. Waste Reduction
- Recycling and composting programs
- Refillable toiletry dispensers instead of single-use plastics
- Elimination of plastic straws, bottles, and packaging
- Use of biodegradable or reusable materials throughout the property
4. Local Sourcing and Community Support
- Locally sourced food and ingredients for on-site dining
- Employment of local staff with fair wages and training opportunities
- Collaboration with local artisans, businesses, and tour operators
- Respect for local cultures, traditions, and natural spaces
5. Sustainable Construction and Design
- Use of eco-friendly or reclaimed materials in construction
- Preservation of surrounding nature and ecosystems
- Architecture that harmonizes with the environment rather than dominating it
6. Transparency and Education
- Clear sustainability policy available online
- Certification from recognized organizations (see below)
- Guest education about sustainable practices on the property
Certifications to Look For
Third-party certification is one of the best ways to ensure an accommodation is walking the talk. Look for recognized eco-labels such as:
- Green Key
A global eco-label awarded to environmentally friendly hotels and other establishments. - Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)
Sets global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism; many credible programs align with GSTC criteria. - EarthCheck
A scientific benchmarking, certification, and advisory group for travel and tourism. - LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
Commonly used for green buildings, especially in North America. - Rainforest Alliance Certified
Focuses on sustainability in rural and nature-based tourism, especially in Latin America.
Always check whether a certification is current and how actively the accommodation promotes its efforts beyond the badge.
Questions to Ask Before You Book
Not all eco-lodges are listed under green platforms or carry certifications, especially in developing countries. In such cases, it helps to contact the property directly. Here are a few questions you can ask:
- What specific sustainability practices does your property follow?
- Do you use renewable energy sources?
- How do you manage waste and reduce single-use plastics?
- How do you support the local community?
- Do you hire local staff and source products locally?
- What steps do you take to protect the surrounding environment?
Their responses — or lack thereof — can be a clear indicator of their commitment.
Types of Eco-Friendly Stays
Sustainable accommodation comes in many forms. Depending on your destination and travel style, consider:
- Eco-lodges and ecoluxury resorts in natural settings with low-impact design
- Guesthouses and homestays run by local families, offering cultural immersion
- Hostels with green initiatives, ideal for budget travelers
- Off-grid cabins or tiny houses that encourage minimalist, nature-focused living
- Farm stays and agritourism experiences that promote local food systems and regenerative practices
Where to Find Sustainable Accommodation
Several booking platforms specialize in eco-conscious stays. Some of the most reliable include:
- EcoBnB — Focused on environmentally sustainable properties in Europe
- Bookdifferent — Shows carbon footprints and donates part of revenue to green projects
- Green Pearls — Highlights unique sustainable hotels around the world
- Fairbnb — A socially responsible alternative to mainstream home-sharing platforms
Even on mainstream platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb, use filters such as “sustainability certified” or check the listing’s eco policies.