Sustainability
We at the Super 8 of Monroe are concerned about the community where we do business. We are committed to continuously evaluating our operations to set goals and take specific actions towards environmental, social, and economic sustainability. This process involves a long term commitment to benchmark our present situation, set goals for improvement, achieve those goals, and then repeat the process looking for new opportunities.
As part of this program we hope to reduce our overall environmental impact. To do this we as a business benchmarked the following areas of our operation to document our current measurable environmental impact:
Solid waste—landfill, recycled, overall cost- Energy consumption—natural gas and electricity
- Water consumption
- We are the only hotel in Wisconsin to be certified by Energy Star. We scored 95 points out of a possible 100!
In the future comparisons can be made to check improvements. Based on our current situation the following improvement plan has been initiated.
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| We try to engage our employees and guests in making a positive impact on our environment. For information on Travel Green Wisconsin as it applies to this facility, please contact the Front Desk. For additional information on “green principles” ask the Front Desk for “Green Information”. We also encourage your input. If you have suggestions as to areas you would like us to improve, please leave those suggestions at the Front Desk. If you appreciate our approach, give us your vote of confidence. It is our honor to serve your needs. |
| Minimizing the amount of waste that goes to landfills will reduce negative environmental impacts as well as limit the amount of greenhouse gases released throughout a product’s lifecycle i.e. extraction, manufacturing, distribution, use and disposal. We currently recycle fluorescent bulbs at the end of their useful life. Hazardous materials are properly identified and disposed. To minimize the impact on our landfill, laundry detergents, cleaning supplies, and certain food items are purchased in bulk or recycled containers. We implemented a guest room recycling program and ask for your cooperation and participation. Our hotel refrains from using plastic bags to package purchased or free items given to guests. Newspapers are not automatically given to guests but are available in common areas to peruse. Lastly we donate food, furnishings, fixtures, and linens to local charities if possible. |
We have integrated energy efficiency and conservation practices into our operations to conserve natural resources and decrease operational expenses.We have participated in energy efficient programs and audits conducted by Focus on Energy, a third party organization sponsored by our local utility companies. As a result of these audits, the following initiatives have been taken.
- Existing incandescent light bulbs in guest rooms replaced with compact fluorescent bulbs
- Lighting in low traffic areas or areas where daylight can be used have appropriate daylight, motion, or timed sensors
- HVAC – Guest Room Energy Management System – occupancy sensors used to control HVAC in guest rooms and common areas
- HVAC systems are on a yearly PM program
- When appliances are replaced Energy Star appliances are used—for example room heating/cooling units are heat pumps
- Insulation used around water heaters
- Entry areas have air locks and weather-stripping
- Guest room windows are operable, and we encourage all guests to use these windows for ventilation in lieu of AC
- Use of energy misers on pop machines
- Use of low-flow sink aerators
- Use of fluorescent lights or compact fluorescent lights in the back of the house and storage areas
- Hotel is built into a berm to maximize heating/cooling efficiency. Low e windows are utilized on the north and south sides of the building
- Reclaim heat from dehumidification from swimming pool area to heat whirlpool.
- Use of energy recovery ventilators to bring in fresh air. • Use of motion sensors in business and fitness centers as well as public restrooms
- Use of solar panels (a renewable energy source) for heating water for the swimming pool and hot water for guest rooms and laundry
- Midwest Renewable Energy Association Demonstration Site. Call the Front Desk for an appointment
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To conserve water we have initiated the following:
- Installed low flow sink aerators in all sinks
- Linen reuse program – THIS INVOLVES YOU, OUR GUEST. – This program allows you to choose whether to have sheets and towels washed daily. Follow the instructions on the card in your room.
- Large areas like parking lots are swept or vacuumed instead of washing with water. Equipment which uses water (hot water heaters, dishwashers, ice machines, washing machines, and faucets) are on a yearly PM program to maximize water usage and are run at manufacturers suggested levels of operation. YOU CAN HELP US by pointing our leaky/dripping facets or running toilets. Please contact the front desk.
- Dishwashing detergents are biodegradable and do not contain nitrilotriacedic acid or chlorine.
- Grass is usually not watered. Shrubs, flowers, and trees are watered in dry times only and only from dusk to dawn.
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The quality of the air we breathe will directly or indirectly affect our health. The following measures have been taken to improve our air quality within this facility:
- Exhaust fans are vented, outside and not to attic
- Dehumidifiers and good ventilation are used in high moisture areas
- HVAC systems checked annually or as needed for mold and bacteria
- We monitor for carbon monoxide and natural gas in appropriate areas
- Ozone generators are used in hallways
- We refrain from using deodorizers to mask smells
- Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the hotel
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Ecosystem and biodiversity conservation helps to maintain the delicate ecological balance. To protect biodiversity, endangered species, water, habitat and landscape, the following practices and concepts have been adopted:
- Landscape design is with native plants which require a minimum amount of watering and fertilizing. Watering when done occurs in the early morning or at night where evaporation is minimized
- Business securely stores food waste and trash to avoid accidental feeding of animals
- Biking—hiking—skiing—fishing—ATVing—snowmobiling
During your stay we encourage you to: — Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid contact during mating season or other sensitive times — Adopt the “Leave No Trace” principle—www.Int.org for more information:
- Plan ahead and prepare – try to anticipate all of your needs at all times during your stay—food, drink, emergency equipment (call phone) etc.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly—may include carrying it out with you
- Leave what you find—save environment for others
- Minimize campfire impact—clean up—make absolutely sure its out
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Field guides for bike, ATV, hiking, and snowmobiling trails are available at the Front Desk. We also have an area map with local attractions in this website. Please contact us for further information. |
| Air and ground transportation are the largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions that affect our global climate—so while you are here walk if possible. If alternate transportation is needed (taxi, limousine, bus) contact the Front Desk for help. Bicycle transportation routes are available. If you did bring your bike, we offer secure overnight storage. Unless you request scenic routes, all road directions will be given to minimize travel distances. |
| We practice the concept of “Green Purchasing” by purchasing locally produced products and services when available through locally owned businesses. We also support businesses that promote fair trade practices and are socially responsible with regard to contractual agreements, exploitive or discriminatory practices. |
We strive to support our local community by being involved in its economic, social, and environmental stewardship. The following are areas which exemplify our community involvement philosophy:
- Business staff consists of 100% local people
- Applicable local crafts, products, and services are purchased for use in the business or for sale to our customers
- Literature promoting local attractions, business, restaurants or tourist hotspots can be found in the lobby area
- Actively support local Chamber of Commerce and other community based business organizations
- Contribute to the community’s well being by supporting and participating in local activities and projects
- Allow the use of this facility for community events
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The aforementioned nine areas of action demonstrate our commitment to improve our community’s environmental, social, and economic sustainability by employing a comprehensive “Green Philosophy”. Our hotel has received national and statewide recognition for their “Green Initiative” and is certified “Green” by Travel Green Wisconsin. Ask for a guided tour, we are a demonstration site for Midwest Renewable Energy Association. How can you help? Let us know how we are doing. Leave your comments and suggestions about our program at the Front Desk. Use the template of this program to start your own “Green Initiative”. Let us know how you are doing! Remember a “Green Philosophy” is a long term commitment and one that involves continuous improvement.
