Even though Las Vegas has a reputation for embracing excess, there are some places in the city where less is more. Operators of the city’s eco-friendly hotels take tremendous pride in showcasing elegant accommodations that have a minimal impact on the environment. Check out which Sin City properties earn a spot on the list of the greenest hotels and what sets them apart as being more eco-friendly than their competitors.
Energy-Efficiency at Excalibur
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This hotel has earned four out of five keys in the Green Key Eco-Rating system, a premier rating service that recognizes eco-friendly hotels. There are 38,000 energy-efficient compact fluorescents at this property. As a result, the hotel uses seven million kilowatt hours less electricity. Replacing the hot water distribution system achieved both energy savings and a reduction in the hotel’s carbon footprint.
The most interesting eco-friendly strategy implemented at this hotel was for the birds. Instead of defrosting Cornish game hens by running cold water over them, the kitchen moves them to the refrigerator a day ahead of cooking them. Doing so allows the birds to thaw without using water.
Going Green at the Mirage
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As an MGM property, the Mirage in Las Vegas has a “green team” on site to develop and advance its sustainability commitment. The central plant for this hotel uses variable frequency drives on its chillers, securing an hourly saving on electricity of 400 kilowatts. The hotel’s limousines run on compressed natural gas, making them 15% more efficient than traditional models.
Conservation at the Bellagio
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Just like the Mirage, the Bellagio is an MGM hotel that has a dedicated sustainability team. Its approach to being eco-friendly includes replacing old bulbs with energy efficient ones inside and outside the hotel. Management even had 19,000 slot machine bulbs upgraded to LED lights. The beautiful lake in front of the hotel gets refreshed with non-potable water. Remodeling in the last few years has incorporated green building practices including the use of organic carpet and renewable materials in its furnishings.
Carbon Offsets for Palms Casino Resort
When you search Gogobot for Las Vegas hotels, you can find deals at Palms Casino Resort. Besides having excellent prices, this property has a standout track record for going green. The hotel purchases renewable energy credits to offset all of its estimated carbon dioxide emissions from its bars and restaurants. Even the DJ booth by the pool runs on solar power, a first on for the city.
Less Water Consumption at Caesar’s Palace
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As a part of Caesar’s Entertainment, this property participates in a program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Energy efficient lighting is a part of the hotel’s strategy for consuming less electricity.
The hotel outfitted its rooms with water efficient shower heads. On its grounds, visitors stroll through 30,000 feet of xeriscape gardens, which require little water. In addition, this property engages in an aggressive recycling program that targets traditional materials such as cardboard, paper, and plastic, but also includes kitchen grease.
If you’re headed to Las Vegas, the odds are high that you can find an eco-friendly hotel for your next trip.
