Benchmark properties reduce energy use while sustaining, and whenever possible enhancing, the guest experience by using energy efficient central operations such as boilers to lighting systems, kitchen equipment, and automated energy management systems. Benchmark preferred partner: Carbon Lighthouse, Grainger. Within guest rooms, laundries, kitchens, pools, and spas, Benchmark properties continue to implement efficiencies that reduce water and, in many cases, chemicals that are used to treat water systems and clean facilities. Efforts include the “Green Choice” linen and towel reuse programs to the installation of low-flow faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures. Benchmark preferred partners: Ecolab, Grainger. In combination with standard recycling efforts of newspapers and beverage containers, Benchmark properties participate in other opportunities to reduce landfill waste. Such as food waste composting, elimination of all single-use disposables, offering “Green Meetings.” Additionally, our partnership with Clean The World allows participating properties to send open-package bar soap to a recycling facility for a good cause, significantly reducing landfill waste. Benchmark preferred partners: Jet Waste, Eco-Products, IACC. Benchmark’s partnership with The Regency Group provides our portfolio with access to recycled paper materials and other green products, such as eco-friendly pencils versus the traditional pen. Guest room plastic key cards are shifting from the traditional plastic card (a highly toxic manufacturing process) to card options, when keyless is not in place, made from paper, wood, and bioplastic that are better for the environment but equally as durable. Benchmark Preferred Partner: The Regency Group. Many Benchmark properties have transitioned guest bath amenities to all-natural, essential oil-based formulated products made without preservatives and artificial ingredients that are packaged in recyclable containers. Benchmark also promotes the use of high-end bulk dispensers to eliminate product and landfill waste. Benchmark Preferred Partners: Lather, Bee Kind, Box Soap, Aquamenities. Benchmark properties have shifted to hypo-allergenic, phosphate-free, and other natural cleaners. These more natural products have demonstrated performance and are less irritating to guests, employees, and the environment. Benchmark Preferred Partner: Ecolab Benchmark properties connect guests to their local in a more experiential and sustainable way. Our restaurants integrate local products and use fresh, seasonal and organic produce, hormone-free meats and dairy, and other natural products that provide travelers more sustainable and healthier cuisine offerings. Benchmark Preferred Partners: Local and Regional Dairy, Meat, Produce, Seafood suppliers.