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California's Global Warming War
California is doing it first, again, if you can believe it. And hopefully it's going to lead the way not only in the U.S. but also around the world. This new code will impact the hospitality industry in green positive ways.
The buzz phrase is global warming but I think climate change is a more accurate term. Nonetheless, California is the first in the nation to adopt green building codes to improve water and energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint. Arnold Schwarzenegger led the way with legislation in 2006; others are soon to follow.
The California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 Assembly Bill 32 was signed by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2006 and adopted by the California Building Standards Commission July 17, 2008. This adopted a green building code sets standards for energy and water conservation, ultimately reducing California's carbon footprint 30 percent by 2020. This code was adopted unanimously. Water efficiency in both commercial and residential buildings has to be increased by 20 percent for interior fixtures and 50 percent for landscaping. Energy efficiency has to be increased by 15 percent.
To take things a step further, a green building initiative was introduced that will improve energy efficiency by 20 percent in state-owned buildings by 2015. Further, new construction and renovation of state buildings must meet the minimum requirements for LEED certification.
I've long said that if the hospitality industry doesn't take steps in greening its operations government will step in to force the issue. Personally, I'd rather see business owners and managers take action on their own volition, but if that doesn't happen, then forcing conservation measures seems like the only way to go.
That said, even with the forced measures, I hope those affected by these building code changes will be even more conservative with their compliance than required, saving even more energy and water than mandated. Not only does it improve environmental conditions to subscribe to green building codes, but also it saves you money.
We're all in business for the purpose of making money, and that purpose comes about through increased revenue and decreased expenses. Increasingly, travelers seek green hotels, restaurants, golf and ski facilities, spas, and even cruises.
Adopting green operations, and telling people what actions you have implemented, will attract your share of business. That takes care of increasing your revenues, along with other business actions you take.
Interestingly, the very green operations you adopt to attract guests to your hospitality venue serve to decrease your expenses. And there's your increased savings. Both sides of this equation go far to improve your bottom line, keeping you in business and improving the environment your guests want to experience during their stay.
My hat goes off to Governor Schwarzenegger for his far-sighted plan and to the California Building Standards Commission for being wise enough to incorporate that into the California Building Code. Next I hope they focus on air quality, indoors and out, as well as recycling and composting.
Posted by Kit
