London Hotels to Go Green

London’s hotels, guest houses, venues and attractions are set to earn awards according to their environmental performance under a new programme launched by the London Development Agency. The Green Tourism for London (GTL) scheme will grade businesses as bronze, silver or gold based on their environment policies and practices. Independent auditors will use 150 separate measures of sustainability, including use of energy and water, as well as waste disposal and purchasing procedures. The awards also recognise businesses that actively promote public transport, local cultural activities and London’s open spaces. Following research from VisitBritain showing that 31% of holiday makers take sustainability issues into account when planning their trip, the new grading scheme will help tourists to identify which businesses are doing their bit for the environment and supporting London initiatives.