With an abundant number of resorts and lodges, it is imperative that these properties find ways to differentiate themselves from the competition and attract new clientele. As people are becoming more conscientious of the environment and ways to protect it, resorts are also following suit. As a result, the following paragraphs will address how an environmental strategy for resorts can increase their bottom line.

For resorts to remain competitive, they must stay ahead of the trends. According to the International Ecotourism Society, eco-tourism and environmentally friendly resorts are among the travel industry's fastest growing sectors. Although some resort owners feel that going "green" is costly, it is something that can pay off in just a couple of years in terms of increased tourism and reduced operating costs.

An environmental strategy for resorts can increase their bottom line by attracting more tourists. Consumers of all demographics, but in particular baby boomers, seek out environmentally friendly vacation destinations. Additionally, since an increasing number of baby boomers are nearing retirement, they have more time on their hands to be taking vacations at eco-friendly resorts, and this is an ideal target market to be focusing on.

Resorts that maintain an environmentally friendly strategy also improve their bottom line by using sustainable practices keeps their costs low. Some resorts even make use of thermal heaters to supply hot water, solar power, compost toilets, and renewable water sources. These methods use fewer resources and result in lower energy bills for the resort owners.

Being an environmentally friendly resort can range in depth whether it's simply conserving energy and recycling or more comprehensive actions can be taken which may include being certified as an eco-friendly resort or being rated by the Audubon Green Leaf? Eco-Rating Program.

The Audubon Green Leaf? Eco-Rating Program is a prestigious evaluation system that began in 1998 to meet the lodging industry's desire to provide quality guest services, while minimizing the impact on the environment. The program delivers a comprehensive and credible means for assessing the extent of the environmental measures undertaken at participating accommodation facilities. Audubon Green Leaf? Eco-Rating Program provides the public with the assurance that audited lodging facilities has met the environmental best practices standards required and are awarded a rating from 1 to 5 Green Leafs and is an excellent way of distinguishing your resort or lodge from the competition.

Operating an environmentally friendly resort, or in particular being awarded by the Audubon Green Leaf? Eco-Rating Program, is a way to stand out from the competition and as a result improve the resorts bottom line.

The number of eco-tourism and environmentally friendly resorts is increasing 25 percent to 30 percent each year, and that is driven by consumer demand. People are increasingly conscious of global warming and other environmental issues. As a result of these concerns, this has lead to a shift in the way that resorts need to operate to keep up with the changing trends. Reducing energy, minimizing resources, and preventing pollution is a simple way that resorts can impact not only the environment, but their bottom line as well.