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US travelers: two thirds would stay at green hotels

Thursday, 19 April 20073 min read

In conjunction with Earth Day (April 22), Orbitz is highlighting beautiful and natural destinations that support the preservation of the environment. Survey results also provide insight into the US travelers’ opinion on the travel industry and the environment.

For example:

 More than half (65%) say it would somewhat impact their decision to stay at a hotel if they knew the hotel was using solar or wind energy to supplement the powering of the building.

 A strong majority (63%) say they would pay a little more to rent a hybrid vehicle or stay at a “green” hotel.

 More than half (52%) of Americans say they would be willing to donate a small portion of their vacation budget to help save the environment when booking a trip.

 More than half (51%) of Americans surveyed feel the tourism industry in the United States is not environmentally friendly.

The natural destinations profiled by Orbitz Travel Experts as environmentally friendly include Zion, Utah; Rocky Mountains, Colorado; St. John, U.S.V.I.; Alaska; Yosemite National Park, California; Clayoquot Sound/Tofino, Vancouver Island, Canada; Costa Rica and Glacier National Park, Montana.

“As a responsible global business within the tourism industry, Orbitz is working to provide its customers with more eco-friendly travel information and choices,” said Heather Leisman, senior director of merchandising for Orbitz. He added:

“Orbitz encourages our customers increase their awareness and consideration of the planet — whether sea kayaking in Alaska or cleaning up a beach in Key West.”

Report by David Wilkening