37 Improve the quality of indoor air

The wellbeing of guests and staff is enhanced by plants, but not only for visual reasons. They also improve the climate of a room. Many plants act as sinks for poisonous substances, which make them useful additions, e. g. in smoking zones.

And: do not use sprays containing CFC.

38 Declare non-smoking areas

Although more and more research shows that active and passive smoking are dangerous to health, just as many people are smoking. Because of this, organisations are expected all the more to ensure adequate ventilation in rooms where it is not possible to prohibit smoking or to segregate smokers from non-smokers. Declared non-smoking areas are expected e.g. in the restaurant or in seminar rooms.

39 Avoid office equipment which pollutes the environment

Environmental management does not stop outside the doors of administration. Converting an office to non-pollutant products costs almost nothing, and any additional outlay which is incurred is reasonably affordable. There are now greener alternatives for the following products:

Toner cartridges from photocopying machines and laser printers can be returned for refill. Ribbons from typewriters and dot matrix printers can now be recycled or re-inked.

40 Take steps to minimise internal and external noise pollution (especially at night)

The quality of stay enjoyed by guests can be dramatically affected by noise pollution, especially at night.  Double (or even triple glazed) windows in bedrooms can significantly reduce the impact of noise from outside.  Consider the layout of the building, to avoid, for instance, school groups being accommodated next to staff sleeping quarters, etc. Some Youth Hostels offer earplugs for visitors. Consider, too, the impact of noise from the Youth Hostel on neighbours and take steps to reduce the impact (for example, "curfew hours", and/or a sign requesting visitors to keep noise levels to a minimum after certain hours).

The creation of a day time "quiet room" for guests provides a peaceful environment away from the noise of the TV and video games.  Take steps to reduce "banging doors", etc, by installing door stops, automatic closing devices, etc.