Head to a 'green' destination this summer

It's easier than you think to have an eco-friendly vacation now that a slew of hotels are taking the initiative to go "green."

In order for a destination to be "green," it must be a leader in environmentally-sound services. This means recycling, energy efficiency and access to the great outdoors. This summer you may consider a "green" destination.

Certified "green" hotels operate with high sustainability across the board. In California, there are currently 100 certified "green" hotels. Dierdra Wallace of the Ambrose Hotel in Santa Monica says, "100 percent of the hotel's cleaners are non-toxic and biodegradable. The linen re-use program is encouraged and the carpeting is made from a material that doesn't emit fumes. The hotel also recycles old carpet. Food should not be wasted, and certified "green" hotels make sure of this. There is usually a compost in the backyard of the hotel. Leftover food is given to employees to take home.

California isn't the only state with "green" offerings. Green hotels and convention centers are sprouting across the country. For example, Boston has three green convention centers, 25 green-certified hotels, and 28 green-certified restaurants and event centers.

Check out Boston Green Tourism for more info, or visit GreenHotels.com for a eco-conscious hotel near you.