Some Tips for a Sustainable Hospitality Business
Our Industry’s Impact on the Environment
The environment is mainly impacted by manufacturing, transportation, and real estate, including hotels. Initially, hotel owners were slow to adopt green practices, thinking that environmentally friendly products were prohibitively expensive, and that sustainability was a passing fad. However, given the awareness of response of customers, it’s safe to say that what was thought to be a trend is quickly becoming the standard.
Additionally, while worries about cost may have been correct in the beginning, green products have dramatically increased their effectiveness, both from a cost and a utilization perspective. Furthermore, by actively searching for ways to reduce or recycle waste, a move to sustainability is one that can help your bottom line. Here are some examples of sustainable practices within the hotel and hospitality industry.
Water-Saving Plumbing Fixtures
With the sheer number of guest bathrooms as well as public spaces, hotels use a tremendous amount of water. By switching to low-flow fixtures, including sinks, showerheads, and toilets, hotels can reduce water usage by 30%.
LED Light Fixtures
LED lighting is about eight times more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent lighting. It’s also three times more efficient than fluorescents. Furthermore, LED bulbs last up to eight times longer than other types of bulbs.
Local and Recycled Materials
Buying locally can help cut down on transportation costs and using recycled materials helps to conserve resources. Both are ways to reduce a property’s carbon footprint.
Green Cleaning Products
Cleaning products are often full of harsh, toxic chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and chlorine. However, environmentally friendly options are available that are botanically derived without losing any cleaning effectiveness. It’s a sustainable move that can also increase your indoor air quality.
Improving the Environment, Guests’ Health, and Your Bottom Line
The above is by no means a comprehensive list. Smaller, more efficient rooms, EV charging stations, and energy management systems are all means to reduce energy usage, waste, and cost. Ultimately, it will increase your property’s value, protect your guests’ health and bolster your standing with them, and save you money.
