In every industry, there is an increase in an awareness of a business’ sustainability and how it ranks against its competitors. This is most obvious in the hospitality industry as it can mean a consumer choosing one place over the other, purely based on its sustainability practices. So in the hotel industry, it is vitally important to start that progression.
Energy Conservation
Hotels are major energy consumers because of their major lighting systems, aeration systems and large scale kitchens. Doing a consumption report and finding out where your greatest energy usage occurs can be eye opening and let you know where improvements can be made. Small changes like replacing lighting with LED systems and installing whiteware with 4+ energy star ratings can greatly reduce your consumption. Servicing equipment, particularly in the kitchen, can mean less energy wastage and small additions like an auto-closing door on a fridge can be a game changer.
Water Conservation
In a hotel, each guest room is fitted with showers, sinks and baths and the kitchens use copious amounts of water too. Do regular checks for leaks as many small leaks can add up. Keep an eye on evaporation on outdoor pools and install water-conserving show heads. Replace plastic bottled water often given complimentary in rooms with ones packaged in glass, although if possible remove bottle water altogether as it is not sustainable in itself.
Waste
Make sure your recycling systems are efficient. This means staff will more readily follow them. Implement glass crushing systems and clear bin labelling for recycled items. Food waste should also be composted or sent into a food liquefier.
Amenities
Provide reusable pump containers of shampoo, conditioner & body wash that can be refilled, reducing wastage that occurs when the customers only use half the item.
Cleaning Products
Change to environment green products where possible. Sometimes straight vinegar and water can do an equal or better job than a chemical based product.