From Between Water & Main Bed and Breakfast

BELHAVEN — Recycling, energy and water conservation and a “shop local” mindset are among the reasons Between Water & Main Bed and Breakfast earned a silver level in the TripAdvisor GreenLeaders program.

The certification highlights hotels and B&Bs that engage in environmentally friendly practices, helping travelers around the world plan greener trips.

TripAdvisor GreenLeaders properties have met a set of environmental standards developed for TripAdvisor by a leading environmental consulting firm, with input from expert partners. The more green practices a hotel has in place, the higher its GreenLeader level, which is shown on the property’s listing on the TripAdvisor site.

“We had to complete a lengthy survey and consent to an audit to be considered for this certification,” said Gail Fowler, who owns Between Water & Main with her husband, Alan Rogers. “We are most proud of the extent to which we have incorporated local and regional products into our business model.”

Some of their products used include: all-natural toiletry items from Whispering Willow, Lincolnton; coffee mugs designed by Carolyn Sleeper, owner of Slatestone Studios, Washington; and dairy products from Simply Natural Creamery, Ayden. In addition to the herbs, flowers and vegetables from its own backyard garden, the inn procures locally and regionally grown fruits and vegetables from Petals and Produce in Pinetown.

“The TripAdvisor GreenLeaders program recognizes the properties around the world that are committed to environmental sustainability,” said Ryan Dillon, manager of responsible travel at TripAdvisor. “We applaud these businesses, from the smallest B&B to the largest hotel chain, for helping to make eco-friendly trips possible for our community of millions of travelers.”

The TripAdvisor GreenLeaders program was developed in consultation with the United Nations Environment Programme, the U.S. Green Building Council and ENERGY STAR, among other leading environmental organizations. For more information, please visit www.tripadvisor.com/GreenLeaders.