Marriott Goes Green... Slightly

Marriott recently announced that it plans to begin using key cards made, at least partially, from recycled plastics. The decision, while undoubtedly made with public perception in mind, does have positive environmental consequences and sets a good example in the hospitality industry.

Marriott International has begun replacing the 24 million plastic key cards that it purchases annually in the U.S. with those made of 50% recycled material.

The company said the policy change will save 66 tons of plastic from being dumped in landfills.

Sure, considering the amount of solid waste piling up in landfills every year, 66 tons is basically dryer lint. Nevertheless, Marriott deserves a nod for the effort. It's always nice to see large-scale corporations making environmentally conscious decisions, even if those decisions are minor.

It would be wonderful to see more large hotel chains manifest these considerations with sustainable building materials, passive heating and water-saving fixtures... but for now, we'll take what we can get. You've got to start somewhere, even it's half-recycled key cards.