Great Wolf Lodge goes Green!

IT’S NOT EASY BEING GREEN
FAQ’s and Facts: How Great Wolves Became “Green Wolves”
What is Green Seal?
Green Seal is a 20-year-old, independent, non-profit organization dedicated to creating a
more sustainable world. Green Seal created rigorous, science-based criteria for the lodging
industry, which includes nearly 30 environmentally responsible components required for a
hotel. Check out their website at www.GreenSeal.org.
Why all the fuss about the certification?
Getting this coveted certification is no easy task, as evidenced by the small number of
hotels nationwide that have it. Green Seal created an unbiased standard for the lodging
industry, known as GS-33, which encompasses almost 30 environmentally responsible
components required by a hotel—recycling, energy conservation, water conservation,
socially responsible purchasing, to name a few. Meeting these requirements means our
resorts are substantially reducing our environmental impact and practicing sustainable
leadership.
How does this relate to Great Wolf Resort’s Project Green Wolf program?
Great Wolf Resorts created its Project Green Wolf program as an umbrella for all the
eco-friendly initiatives at our resorts. Project Green Wolf’s mission is to play a leading
role in conserving our planet for future generations by educating and establishing green
traditions for both our guests and pack members. We’re proud that we developed such a
comprehensive program that we are able to receive third-party certifications such as
Green Seal’s.
What’s really involved in earning Green Seal certification?
Although we are celebrating our Green Seal Silver Certification, we are serious and
committed in our ongoing goal towards sustainable, eco-friendly and socially responsible
practices. Here is just a summary of the criteria we had to meet in order to receive this
prestigious certification. (You can also read a full overview of the GS-33 requirements at
Green Seal’s web site).
Management of Fresh Water Resources
1. Showerheads, faucets and aerators use low-flow, water-conserving fixtures or
retrofits. We also use waterless urinals in our men’s public restrooms.
2. Exterior landscaping uses local plants and watering is scheduled to retain
maximum water.
3. Sidewalks are swept instead of washed.
4. We have a strong guest linen reuse program that saves water by eliminating
unnecessary laundering.
5. Our laundry facility is equipped with the very latest technology, allowing us to
recycle up to 70 percent of the water it uses.
6. In addition to Green Seal requirements, we developed our own waterpark
standards:
· Our waterpark filtration systems use 80 to 90 percent less water than
traditional filters.
· We mechanically control the humidity and temperatures in the park so
there’s very little water loss from evaporation.
· We recover most of our water, filter it, treat it, and return it to the
waterpark. Our systems are considered to be the most effective and
complete in the world.
· Because of our advanced filters, the water we use contains the lowest
amount of chlorine possible, while staying within the recommended local
and state guidelines. Less chlorine in the pools means less chlorine
released into the environment.
Waste Minimization, Reuse and Recycling
1. We have co-mingled recycling bins in all public areas, guest rooms, and employee
areas.
2. Amenities (soap, shampoo, etc.) are packaged in recyclable materials and unused
portions are donated to charity when possible.
3. We’re committed to recycling and we use only recycled paper at our resorts.
4. Resort uses double-sided copying.
5. Products are purchased in bulk, such as concentrated cleaning products.
Energy Efficiency, Conservation and Management
1. In-room, office, and heating/air conditioning equipment is either already energyefficient,
or on schedule to be replaced with energy-efficient equipment.
2. Our lighting uses only energy-efficient bulbs.
3. Systems and appliances are on a preventative maintenance schedule.
4. Energy-efficient windows are used as windows are replaced.
5. Programmable on/off timers and/or sensors are used for lighting and HVAC in
low traffic and low occupancy areas.
Waste Water Management
1. Chlorinated chemicals are used only where there is no less toxic alternative.
2. Automatic dishwashing detergent is biodegradable and does not contain NTA, a
harmful water softener, or chlorine bleach.
3. Laundry detergents and cleaning products are non-phosphate, nontoxic and
biodegradable, and used in concentrated liquid or powder form.
4. Organic insecticides, fertilizers and biocides (used for pesticides and
antimicrobials) are being researched.
Hazardous Substances
1. Hazardous substances are being replaced with less hazardous alternatives.
2. Chemical storage and mixing areas have appropriate space, plumbing and
ventilation.
3. Storage containers are clearly marked and property uses spill containment
measures.
4. Architectural paint does not contain heavy metals or toxic organic substances.
Environmentally and Socially Sensitive Purchasing Policy
1. Hotel has established an environmental purchasing policy led by a steering
committee.
2. Printing and writing papers contain a minimum of 30 percent postconsumer
material content or tree-free fiber content; coated paper contains a minimum of 10
percent postconsumer material content or tree-free fiber content.
3. Toilet tissue is made from at least 20 percent recycled fibers; facial tissue from at
least 10 percent recycled fibers; and napkins and paper towels from at least 40
percent recycled fibers.
4. Durable goods are of sufficient quality to allow reuse, refinishing and/or
reupholstering.
5. Products such as paints and cleaning products meet Green Seal’s low VOC
guidelines. (VOCs are volatile organic compounds, and can result in air
pollution.)
6. Preference is given to suppliers who provide reusable packaging and shipping
pallets.
7. Preference is given to environmentally responsible service suppliers.

Read more at Project Green Wolf

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