Travel Green Category Definitions

New in 2009 we are including Travel Green Practices on our website. www.ExploreMinnesota.com. The following definitions are suggestions and ideas only for help in filling out your attractions and accommodations surveys; other practices may fit well into a category. The open-ended text box allows you to provide an additional short description, as you see fit.

Waste reduction/Reuse/Recycling: recycling program, recycling baskets, donate older materials, buy recycled products, return vendor packing materials, discontinue use of polystyrene foam and non-recyclable plastic products, reuse building materials, store chemicals safely, composting.

Water conservation/Wastewater Mgmt Plan: waterless cleaning of large areas, use a water plan, water-efficient plumbing fixtures, drought-tolerant vegetation, use rainwater, reclaimed water system, dispose of chemicals properly, automatic run-off water taps.

Energy efficiency/conservation: compact bulbs, energy star, lighting sensors, use of daylight/solar, LED exit signs, energy management system, window film, insulated window coverings, efficient pumps, renewable energy, energy audit.

Air quality improvements: well-ventilated areas, do not leave vehicles idling, encourage public transportation, clean air handlers & coils, check HVAC annually, use HEPA filters, test air periodically, environmentally responsible cleaning, fume-free products, use low VOC materials.

Eco-friendly landscape & facility design: minimize water evaporation, design reflects surroundings, watch wildlife from a distance, control noise levels, native vegetation, promote leave-no-trace, integrated pest management, residual pesticides, drought-tolerant vegetation, rainwater collection, calibrated irrigation controls, install rain sensors to irrigation systems, control hardscape runoff.

Transportation-related policies or programs: use of flex-fuel, electric or hybrid vehicles by facility and/or promoted through discounts or priority parking, shuttle services, promote or provide public or alternative transportation, do not leave vehicles idling, priority parking for carpools, provide bike lockers or storage.

Eco-friendly purchasing practices: prefer durable equipment, purchase local products, purchase reusable products, use recycled paper products, prefer low-toxicity products, minimal packaging.

Organic or local food & beverage choices: purchase products from local farmers or companies, offer organic selections (e.g., produced without pesticides or fertilizers), natural products.