In April 2006 the Graycote Inn became the first  lodging property of any type on Mt. Desert Island to satisfy the requirements of the Green Lodging Certification Program of the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.  The certification recognizes the Inn’s standing as an Environmental Leader in the hospitality sector. The Graycote Inn is only the ninth lodging property in Maine to achieve this certification. As of the fall of 2007 the Graycote Inn is the only Green B&B on Mt. Desert Island.

 Certification recognizes a high level of environmental consciousness in reducing pollution, minimizing water and energy use, and engaging in environmental education.  Pollution is reduced by such practices as using non-polluting cleaning products, eliminating Styrofoam food containers, composting, buying products in bulk rather than single-use packages, and recycling paper, glass, plastic, and metal.

Water use is  reduced using water conserving fixtures in sinks, toilets, and showers as well as by avoiding unnecessary water use outdoors. Energy use is reduced by installing high efficiency furnaces and air conditioning units, and energy-efficient lighting.

 Environmental education is practiced passively by serving as an example to the traveling public and actively by providing guests with access to educational materials.

Stay with an Environmental Leader!

If you would like to stay at certified Environmental Leader lodgings while traveling elsewhere in Maine you can click here for a complete list.