What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
SHIMLA: Aiming to encourage hotels to adopt environment-friendly and energy-conservation methods, the Himachal Pradesh government has decided to start the concept of green rating of tourism properties.
Hotels will be rated on the basis of low water usage through measures such as the use of rainwater harvesting, low-flow toilets, and showers. It will also involve energy conservation through measures such as the use of LED lights and renewable energy sources like solar power.
Though voluntary and not binding on any hotels, the idea is a brainchild of the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board (HPPCB). It is expected to go a long way in inspiring hoteliers to go in for energy and water conservation in an ecologically sensitive state like Himachal Pradesh.
Prevalent worldwide, the HPPCB has prepared a draft plan to introduce the concept in a big way.
A top government official dealing with environment conservation said the pollution control board had been asked to prepare a detailed draft so that the concept could be introduced immediately.
He said an outlay would be prepared wherein measures would be listed to create greater awareness towards protecting the environment with steps such as conserving energy and having more greenery on hotel premises.
Himachal has more than 10,000 hotels, homestays and guesthouses, though the count of properties registered with the state Tourism Department stands much lower at 6,063. It is mandatory for hotels to seek consent from the state Environment Department to start operations.
Himachal being a hill state, the introduction of the green concept can help in creating sensitivity towards the environment.
