More travelers in the U.S. are seeking places to stay that care for the planet and the people who live on it. But what does it really mean when a hotel, lodge, or vacation rental calls itself “sustainable”? And how can you tell whether it’s genuine environmental action or just clever marketing? Here’s a guide to what you should look for when choosing sustainable accommodations.

What Does “Sustainable Accommodation” Mean?

A sustainable accommodation actively works to reduce its environmental footprint while creating positive impacts for people and local communities. It’s not just about saving water or turning off the lights—it’s about responsible choices in energy, waste, food, construction, and social practices.

Many properties align their efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and Goal 13 (Climate Action). But sustainability also includes well-being, culture, and fair economic practices—for both guests and employees.

Look for Certifications and Labels

One of the easiest ways to assess a property’s sustainability is to check for recognized certifications. In the U.S., some of the most credible include:

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) – a certification for buildings that meet high standards in energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials.
• Green Key Global – a certification program for hotels and meeting venues that focuses on energy, water, waste, and community engagement.
• ENERGY STAR – a government-backed label for energy-efficient buildings and appliances.
• Travelife or EarthCheck – international programs that evaluate sustainability performance in tourism businesses.

Certifications aren’t a guarantee of perfection, but they show that the property is being audited and is committed to continuous improvement.

Energy, Water, and Waste – The Visible Signs

When you arrive, you can often tell whether a place takes sustainability seriously. Look for:

• Energy-saving features such as LED lighting, motion sensors, and solar panels.
• Water-efficient fixtures and signs encouraging towel and linen reuse.
• Recycling and composting options available to guests.
• Natural or locally sourced materials in furniture and décor.

Small details—like refillable soap dispensers instead of single-use bottles or breakfast buffets without plastic packaging—often reveal a property’s true priorities.

Food That Makes a Difference

Food is a big part of any stay, and it’s also an area where sustainability shines. A responsible property will often:

• Serve local and seasonal ingredients.
• Offer vegetarian and plant-based options.
• Work to reduce food waste through portion control and creative reuse.
• Partner with local farmers, breweries, and artisans.

By choosing places that support local producers, you help strengthen the regional economy and reduce the carbon footprint of your meals.

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Social and Community Responsibility

Sustainability isn’t only about the environment—it’s also about people. A responsible accommodation supports fair working conditions and contributes positively to its community. Signs of this include:

• Fair wages and safe working environments for staff.
• Collaboration with local artists, craftspeople, and small businesses.
• Support for community projects, conservation efforts, or cultural preservation.
• Information for guests on how to explore the area respectfully and responsibly.

When you stay somewhere that values social responsibility, you’re helping to promote a fairer and more sustainable travel industry.

Your Role as a Guest

Even the greenest property depends on its guests to make sustainability work. You can do your part by:

• Turning off lights, heating, and electronics when not in use.
• Reusing towels and linens.
• Avoiding unnecessary waste and recycling properly.
• Respecting local nature, culture, and customs.

Small actions add up—especially when many travelers make them a habit.

Ask Questions and Choose Thoughtfully

The best thing you can do as a guest is to stay curious. Ask staff how they approach sustainability, and pay attention to whether their answers sound specific and sincere. True sustainability is about transparency and progress, not perfection.

When you choose accommodations that take responsibility seriously, you send a message to the travel industry that sustainability matters. It’s a small decision that can make a big difference—for the environment, for the people you meet, and for the quality of your travel experience.