Taking the bike or bus? Berlin brothel offers discount

If even brothels can go green, what excuse do the rest of Europe’s businesses have for not being eco-friendly?

A Reuters article this week reports that a brothel in Berlin — Maison d’envie — is offering a discount for customers who arrive by bicycle or public transportation rather than by car.  The lower-carbon patrons receive a €5 break off the usual price of €70 for 45 minutes.

Brothel owner Thomas Goetz told Reuters the discount offers multiple benefits beyond a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and some green credibility: an additional three to five customers per day, less traffic and fewer parking problems in the neighbourhood and a publicity boost that helps take the edge off the economic crisis that’s hurting the prostitution industry as much as any other.