FORT COLLINS, COLO.— Based on the premise that spas should be green as a part of the culture of the spa industry, The Spa Association (SPAA) has launched a Green Certification Program to define the parameters of “green” within the industry both for spa facilities and product lines.
SPAA utilizes the Ecological Footprint model largely set forth by William Rees in 1992 in the effort to compare human demands on nature with the biosphere’s ability to regenerate resources and provide services. The LEED green ideals and principles are also enacted in the SPAA materials and precepts particularly for building and facilities projects. Using a point system SPAA determines the environmental merits of a facility, business or product.
Some of the many considerations include: water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, employment conditions, mission and code of ethics, materials and resources, ingredients sourcing, packaging, indoor environmental quality, customer service protocols, importance of giving back to the industry, location and linkages, awareness and education, innovation in design, and regional priority.
After an assessment participants are given a listing of areas that warrant improvement. A measurement of their current green standing is assigned. The business is then monitored in a number of ways into the future to either maintain their standing or upgrade to a higher level.
Go to The Spa Association.
