Build a sustainable hotel operation that guests respect and the planet needs. Discover eco-friendly supply alternatives that work, learn what’s greenwashing vs real impact, and understand how sustainability can become your competitive advantage without breaking the budget.
Due to a greater emphasis on health, many individuals today request drinks with reduced or no alcohol content. They want to visit pubs but not consume as much alcohol as they once used to.
Every time you go out to eat or interact with others, alcohol consumption is assumed. Because of the development of non-alcoholic beverages, non-drinkers now have options that were frequently unavailable in the past.
Nowadays bartenders are getting inventive by preparing fermented fruit tonics and using them in their handmade sodas because making complicated non-alcoholic cocktails is undoubtedly more difficult. Some people are perfecting their own kombucha, a wonderful fermented beverage that is non-alcoholic and has a long list of health benefits. But which companies actually stay up to date with this latest trend?
Hyatt, USA
Numerous Hyatt hotels across the United States now offer sophisticated spirit-free beverage alternatives thanks to Hyatt’s new Zero Proof, Zero Judgment program, which uses Ritual Zero Proof and Fever-Tree products. The mission of this program is to create thoughtful, hospitality-driven experiences for everyone and raise awareness about health and well-being.
A Hyatt poll revealed that, despite the fact that people frequently opt to indulge while traveling, nearly 50% of respondents preferred non-alcoholic beverages to beer or cocktails.
The Merrion, Ireland
Although you may not expect to discover alcohol-free alternatives in Ireland’s capital, the zero-proof revolution has spread throughout the entire country. The hotel started distilling “Artonical,” a zero-proof gin produced from botanicals like juniper, angelica root, lemon, orange, and grapefruit, as part of its non-alcoholic Irish spirit program. The private label spirit is showcased in a variety of vibrant combinations on the iconic “NoLo” mocktail menu.
IHG, USA
In order to integrate this escalating consumer demand across the IHG brand portfolio, a tea collaboration between Hotel Indigo and Steven Smith Teamaker’s took place. Since January, Hotel Indigo locations have offered healthy herbs, roots, and spice teas. Ashwagandha, turmeric, ginger, and other useful, high-immunity components are included in the teas. Other IHG properties, like Regent, put a lot of effort into developing a bar menu with interesting alcohol-free options, such as mocktails.
The sober trend in hospitality is more than just a passing fad—it’s a reflection of a broader cultural shift toward mindful consumption and inclusivity. As more individuals prioritize health and well-being, hotels, bars, and restaurants are adapting by offering innovative non-alcoholic options that rival traditional cocktails in complexity and flavor. With major brands like Hyatt, The Merrion, and IHG leading the way, it’s clear that the future of hospitality is not just about what’s in the glass, but about personal experiences for all guests.
As the hospitality industry increasingly embraces eco-friendly practices, towel reuse programs have emerged as a simple yet impactful way for hotels to reduce their environmental footprint and operational costs. These initiatives encourage guests to reuse their bath towels during their stay, significantly reducing water consumption, energy usage, and detergent use. Beyond the direct savings, such programs appeal to the growing number of environmentally conscious travelers, enhancing your hotel’s reputation and potentially attracting more guests.
According to a study by the US Travel Data Center, an estimated 43 million “environmental travelers” in the USA alone are concerned about supporting environmental efforts. This growing trend underscores the importance of implementing sustainable practices in hotels.
How Hilton saved millions of dollars with Towel Reuse Program.
The Rising Trend of Towel Reuse in India
Recent studies indicate a growing acceptance of towel reuse programs among Indian travelers. According to a report published by Hotelier India, 55% of travelers are now adopting eco-friendly habits, including participating in towel reuse initiatives. This trend underscores the importance of implementing such programs in hotels across India.
Environmental Impact: Significant reduction in water consumption, energy usage, and detergent use.
Cost Savings: Hotels can cut laundry expenses considerably. For example, the Holiday Inn in Burlington, North Carolina, USA, saved almost US$20,000 yearly by reducing room-cleaning time by six minutes per room with its sheet and towel reuse program.
Guest Satisfaction: Many eco-conscious travelers appreciate and seek out hotels with such initiatives. A study by CNN Travel found that guests who participate in a hotel’s sustainability efforts reported higher satisfaction with their stay.
Extended Linen Life: Less frequent washing means less wear on fabrics, prolonging their life and reducing replacement costs.
Operational Efficiency: Housekeeping staff have more time to focus on other tasks, improving overall service quality.
Implementing Your Towel Reuse Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Communicate Effectively with Guests
Clear and strategic communication is crucial for the success of your towel reuse program. Here’s how to ensure your message reaches guests at various touchpoints:
a) Publish Information on Your Website
Create a dedicated page explaining your towel reuse program and other eco-friendly initiatives.
Highlight the environmental benefits and how guests can participate.
b) Include Information in Reservation Confirmations
Sample message for reservation confirmation email:
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we offer a towel reuse program. By participating, you can help us save water and energy. Simply hang your towels if you wish to reuse them, or place them on the floor for fresh ones. Together, we can make a positive impact on the environment.
c) Use In-Room Messaging
Research by Cornell University on “Invoking Social Norms: a Social Psychology Perspective on Improving Hotels’ Linen Reuse Programs” found that descriptive messaging is most effective. Here’s a tested message that achieved a 47% participation rate:
“JOIN YOUR FELLOW GUESTS IN HELPING TO SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT. Almost 75% of guests who are asked to participate in our new resource savings program do help by using their towels more than once. You can join your fellow guests in this program to help save the environment by reusing your towels during your stay.”
Place this message on hanging cards or tent cards in multiple locations within the room to ensure visibility.
You can read the complete article on the research here:
“Your small act can make a big difference. Reuse your towels and help us save thousands of liters of water annually.”
“Be part of the solution! Hang your towels to reuse them and help us reduce water and energy consumption.”
d) Communicate at Check-In
Sample script for check-in:
“In your room, you’ll find information about our towel reuse program. By hanging your towels, you indicate you’d like to reuse them. This helps us save water and energy. If you need fresh towels at any time, just let our housekeeping staff know.”
2. Provide Proper Towel Hanging Facilities
To encourage reuse, it’s crucial to ensure guests have appropriate means to dry their towels effectively:
Install proper towel racks or rails in bathrooms, not just hooks. No guest wants to use a soggy towel, so it’s essential to provide adequate hanging space for towels to dry completely before their next use.
Avoid relying solely on hooks for towel hanging. If guests only have hooks to hang their towels, there’s little chance the towels will dry properly, discouraging reuse.
Ensure adequate ventilation in bathrooms to prevent towels from remaining damp and musty.
If space allows, install multiple towel bars to accommodate different towel sizes and multiple guests.
For hotels with limited wall space, consider over-the-door towel racks or freestanding towel stands as alternatives.
By providing proper drying facilities, you not only encourage guests to participate in your towel reuse program but also enhance their overall experience. Dry, fresh-feeling towels are more likely to be reused, increasing the success rate of your sustainability efforts while maintaining guest comfort and satisfaction.
Type of towel hangers for towel reuse program.
3. Train Your Housekeeping Team
Proper staff training is essential for the program’s success:
Educate staff on the importance of the program and its environmental impact.
Provide clear guidelines on identifying and respecting guests’ towel reuse choices.
Train staff to replace towels only when they are placed on the floor or in designated areas.
Implement a system for staff to track participation rates and report any issues.
Remember, the success of our towel reuse program depends on you. This video demonstrates, even the most willing guests can’t participate effectively if we don’t follow through on our end. Your attention to detail and respect for guests’ choices are crucial in making this program work.
The Environmental and Financial Impact
Implementing a towel reuse program can lead to significant environmental and financial benefits:
Water Conservation: A typical hotel can save 17 gallons of water per occupied room night.
Energy Savings: Reduced hot water usage leads to lower energy consumption.
Detergent Reduction: Less frequent washing means reduced chemical usage.
Cost Savings: Hotels can save approximately $6.50 per occupied room night through linen and towel reuse programs.
Laundry Reduction: According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association, requesting patrons to participate in the program reduces the number of loads of laundry—as well as related water, sewer, energy, and labor costs—by 17 percent.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you better understand and implement a successful towel reuse program, here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
What are the main benefits of a towel reuse program for hotels? Towel reuse programs offer multiple benefits:
Environmental impact: They significantly reduce water consumption, energy usage, and detergent use.
Cost savings: Hotels can cut laundry expenses considerably.
Guest satisfaction: Many eco-conscious travelers appreciate and seek out hotels with such initiatives.
Marketing advantage: It enhances the hotel’s image as an environmentally responsible business.
How can hotels effectively communicate the towel reuse program to guests? Effective communication involves multiple touchpoints:
Website: Include program details on your sustainability page.
Reservation confirmations: Mention the program in booking emails.
Check-in: Brief guests about the program upon arrival.
In-room messaging: Use clear, strategically placed cards or signs in the bathroom.
Staff interaction: Train staff to politely remind guests about the program when appropriate.
What’s the best way to phrase the towel reuse message for maximum participation? Research shows that social norm messaging is most effective. For example: “JOIN YOUR FELLOW GUESTS IN HELPING TO SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT. Almost 75% of guests participate in our resource-saving program by reusing their towels. You can join them in helping to save the environment during your stay.” This approach leverages the power of social influence to encourage participation.
How can hotels ensure guests have a positive experience with towel reuse? To ensure a positive experience:
Provide proper drying facilities like towel racks or heated rails.
Ensure bathrooms are well-ventilated to prevent damp towels.
Train housekeeping to respect guests’ choices and replace towels promptly when requested.
Offer high-quality, absorbent towels that dry quickly.
Provide clear instructions on how to participate in the program.
What are some common challenges in implementing a towel reuse program, and how can they be addressed? Common challenges include:
Guest resistance: Address by clearly communicating benefits and making participation easy.
Staff inconsistency: Solve with thorough training and regular reminders.
Ineffective messaging: Improve by testing different message formats and placements.
Lack of proper facilities: Invest in adequate towel racks and ventilation.
Difficulty tracking impact: Implement systems to measure water and energy savings.
Conclusion
Implementing a towel reuse program is a simple yet effective way for hotels to reduce their environmental impact while cutting operational costs. By communicating clearly with guests, providing proper facilities, and training staff effectively, you can create a successful program that benefits both your hotel and the planet. As more travelers seek eco-friendly accommodations, such initiatives can give your hotel a competitive edge in the market.
Remember, the key to success lies in making it easy and appealing for guests to participate. Start small, measure your results, and continuously improve your program to maximize its impact and guest satisfaction. With the insights provided in this guide and the answers to common questions, you’re well-equipped to launch a successful towel reuse program that will benefit your hotel, your guests, and the environment.
Goldstein, N. J., Cialdini, R. B., & Griskevicius, V. (2008). A Room with a Viewpoint: Using Social Norms to Motivate Environmental Conservation in Hotels. Journal of Consumer Research, 35(3), 472-482.
We invite readers to share their experiences with towel reuse programs or ask any questions in the comments section below. Your insights can help fellow hoteliers improve their sustainability initiatives.
In the rapidly evolving hospitality industry, hotels are continually seeking innovative ways to enhance guest experiences while embracing sustainability. One such advancement is the installation of hydration stations. As the founder of Zarnik, India’s first B2B e-commerce marketplace for hotels, I have observed in many hotels how these modern water dispensers are transforming guest hydration, offering a perfect blend of convenience, eco-friendliness, and health benefits.
What Are Hydration Stations?
Hydration stations are water dispensing systems strategically installed in common areas or on each floor of hotels. These stations provide guests with easy access to clean, filtered water, often offering both room temperature and chilled options. Many hotels complement these stations with complimentary reusable water bottles, encouraging guests to refill throughout their stay.
Hydration Station in AC Hotel Houston
Benefits for Guests
Convenience: Guests no longer need to rely on small bottles of water in their rooms or make trips to vending machines. With hydration stations on every floor, refreshment is always just steps away.
Health and Wellness: Easy access to water promotes proper hydration, which is essential for guest well-being, especially for travelers adjusting to new climates or recovering from jet lag.
Cost Savings: Complimentary water refills mean guests don’t have to purchase bottled water, leading to significant savings during their stay.
Customization: Some advanced stations offer flavoring options or sparkling water, allowing guests to personalize their hydration experience.
Reduction in Plastic Waste: By eliminating the need for single-use plastic water bottles, hotels significantly reduce their plastic footprint.
Energy Efficiency: Modern hydration stations are designed to be energy-efficient, consuming less power than traditional water coolers or mini-fridges stocked with bottled water.
Water Conservation: Filtered tap water requires far fewer resources to produce and transport compared to bottled water.
Operational Advantages for Hotels
Cost-Effective: While there’s an initial investment, hydration stations can lead to long-term cost savings by reducing the need to purchase, store, and dispose of bottled water.
Brand Enhancement: Hotels that offer hydration stations are often perceived as modern, health-conscious, and environmentally responsible, enhancing their brand image.
Maintenance and Hygiene: These stations are typically easier to maintain and keep hygienic compared to traditional water dispensers or constantly restocking mini-fridges with bottled water.
Implementation Tips for Hotels
Strategic Placement: Install stations in easily accessible areas on each floor, near elevators or ice machines.
Clear Signage: Use informative signs to guide guests to the stations and explain their benefits.
Quality Matters: Invest in high-quality filtration systems to ensure the best-tasting water.
Branded Bottles: Offer reusable water bottles branded with the hotel logo as a practical and memorable souvenir.
Staff Training: Ensure staff can answer questions about the stations and promote their use to guests.
Case Study: Noelle Hotel in Nashville
While my experience is primarily in the Indian market, it’s instructive to look at successful implementations globally. The Noelle hotel in Nashville provides an excellent example of successful hydration station implementation. According to guest reviews, the hotel offers water stations on each floor, complete with cold and hot water options, and fresh bags of ice. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary refillable water bottles provided by the hotel.
One guest, Craig from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, noted: “The Noelle was near perfection, all the small details have been well thought out from the unique water station on each floor with personal room bags of ice… to the wonderful personal refillable water bottles that can be taken home!”
Another guest, Lorraine from Wantagh, New York, mentioned: “The hydration station on each floor with the complimentary refillable water bottles is definitely a plus.”
These testimonials highlight how hydration stations can significantly enhance the guest experience and contribute to positive reviews.
Noelle has received numerous positive reviews on their hydration station on TripAdvisor.
Gallery of Various Hydration Station Implementations in Hotels
The Indian Context
In India, where water quality can be a significant concern for many travelers, hydration stations offer a reliable and eco-friendly solution. They address guests’ need for safe drinking water while demonstrating a hotel’s commitment to both guest comfort and environmental responsibility. From a procurement perspective, which is a key focus for us at Zarnik, hydration stations can streamline operations for hotels in India. By reducing the need for individual water bottles, hotels can simplify their supply chain and potentially reduce costs in the long run.
The Future of Hydration in Hospitality
As sustainability continues to be a key focus in the hospitality industry, both in India and globally, hydration stations are likely to become a standard feature in hotels worldwide. Future innovations may include smart dispensers that track water consumption, offer more customization options, or integrate with hotel apps for a seamless guest experience. In conclusion, hydration stations represent a win-win solution for hotels and their guests. By providing convenient access to quality water while reducing environmental impact, these installations are not just a trend, but a significant step towards more sustainable and guest-centric hospitality practices. As we continue to innovate in the hotel supplies industry, we’re excited to see more hotels in India and beyond adopting solutions like hydration stations, enhancing guest experiences while promoting sustainability.
About the Author: Azhar Umar is the CEO and CTO of Zarnik, India’s first B2B e-commerce marketplace for hotels. With an MBA from IIM Kozhikode and extensive experience in the hospitality industry, Azhar combines his expertise in technology and hotel operations to revolutionize the hotel procurement process. His insights are shaped by hands-on experience in addressing the unique challenges faced by hotels in India.
We invite our readers to share their experiences with hydration stations in hotels, whether in India or elsewhere. Hoteliers, we welcome your insights on the challenges and successes you’ve encountered while implementing these systems. Your thoughts and experiences are valuable to us!
In the hospitality industry, providing eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing amenities is a growing trend. Bamboo products, in particular, have gained popularity due to their sustainable nature and elegant appearance. However, for resorts located in humid regions, the use of bamboo amenities can lead to unexpected challenges. This article explores the potential problems associated with bamboo products in high-moisture environments and offers practical solutions for maintaining a clean, safe, and comfortable atmosphere for your guests.
The Moisture Dilemma: Why Bamboo May Not Be Your Best Choice
Resorts in tropical or humid climates face a constant battle against moisture. While bamboo is a versatile and renewable material, it’s also highly susceptible to mold and mildew growth when exposed to excessive humidity. This vulnerability can lead to several issues:
Rapid Deterioration: In high-moisture environments, bamboo products can deteriorate much faster than in drier climates. This accelerated breakdown not only affects the appearance of your amenities but can also lead to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards for your guests.
Mold and Mildew Growth: Bamboo’s porous nature makes it an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew, especially in humid conditions. These fungi can cause discoloration, musty smells, and even allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Increased Replacement Costs: Due to the faster deterioration rate, resorts may find themselves replacing bamboo amenities more frequently, leading to higher operational costs and increased waste.
Guest Dissatisfaction: Moldy or deteriorating amenities can significantly impact guest experience, potentially leading to negative reviews and decreased bookings.
A fresh packed bamboo toothbrush covered in mold. Source: https://www.reddit.com/
The Limitations of Anti-Mold Treatments
Many manufacturers offer bamboo products treated with anti-mold agents, claiming to solve the moisture problem. However, these treatments are not always as effective as advertised, especially in consistently humid environments. Here’s why:
Limited Duration: Anti-mold treatments often have a limited lifespan, which can be further shortened by constant exposure to moisture.
Inconsistent Application: Not all products undergo the same level of treatment, leading to varying degrees of effectiveness across different items.
Environmental Factors: The extreme conditions in some humid regions can overwhelm even the most robust anti-mold treatments.
Chemical Concerns: Some guests may be sensitive to the chemicals used in anti-mold treatments, potentially causing skin irritations or allergic reactions.
Fungus formation on bamboo toothbrush. Source: https://www.reddit.com/
Beyond Bamboo: The Wider Impact of Humidity on Resort Supplies
It’s important to note that the challenges of high-moisture environments extend beyond bamboo products. Many common resort supplies can be affected, including:
Paper Products: Toilet paper, tissues, and stationery can absorb moisture, leading to degradation and potential mold growth.
Textiles: Bed linens, towels, and upholstery may develop musty odors if not properly dried and stored.
Wooden Furniture: Like bamboo, wooden furniture can warp, crack, or develop mold in humid conditions.
Electronics: High humidity can cause corrosion and malfunction in electronic devices provided for guest use.
Best Practices for Managing Resort Supplies in Humid Climates
To maintain a high standard of cleanliness and guest satisfaction in humid environments, consider implementing these strategies:
Limit Supply Quantities: Instead of stocking up on large quantities of supplies, opt for more frequent, smaller orders. This approach helps ensure that products are used before they have a chance to deteriorate or develop mold.
Choose Moisture-Resistant Alternatives: Look for amenities specifically designed for high-humidity environments. Materials like treated plastics, stainless steel, or specially coated natural materials may be more suitable.
Implement Proper Storage Practices: Store supplies in cool, dry areas with good ventilation. Use dehumidifiers in storage rooms to maintain optimal humidity levels.
Regular Inspections: Conduct frequent checks of all amenities and supplies to catch any signs of mold or deterioration early.
Enhance Ventilation: Improve air circulation in guest rooms and common areas to reduce moisture buildup. Consider installing exhaust fans in bathrooms and other high-humidity zones.
Educate Staff: Train your housekeeping and maintenance teams on identifying and addressing moisture-related issues promptly.
Use Moisture-Absorbing Products: Place silica gel packets or other moisture-absorbing products in drawers and closets to help keep amenities dry.
Rotate Stock: Implement a first-in, first-out inventory system to ensure that older supplies are used before newer ones.
Sustainable Alternatives to Bamboo
For resorts committed to eco-friendly practices, there are several sustainable alternatives to bamboo that perform better in humid environments:
Recycled Plastics: Many companies now offer amenities made from recycled ocean plastics, combining sustainability with moisture resistance.
Cork: Naturally antimicrobial and moisture-resistant, cork can be an excellent choice for some amenities.
Treated Wood: Certain hardwoods, when properly treated, can withstand humid conditions better than bamboo.
Biodegradable Plastics: Made from plant-based materials, these can offer the benefits of plastic without the long-term environmental impact.
Conclusion: Balancing Sustainability and Practicality
While the desire to offer eco-friendly amenities is commendable, it’s crucial for resorts in humid climates to prioritize the longevity and safety of their supplies. By understanding the unique challenges posed by high-moisture environments and implementing targeted strategies, you can maintain a clean, comfortable, and sustainable atmosphere for your guests.
Remember, the key to success lies in choosing the right products for your specific environment, managing your inventory effectively, and maintaining vigilant care of your amenities and supplies. With these practices in place, you can create a truly exceptional experience for your guests while minimizing waste and operational costs.
By adapting your approach to the realities of your climate, you’re not just avoiding potential issues – you’re demonstrating a commitment to quality, sustainability, and guest satisfaction that will set your resort apart in a competitive industry.
Hotel room amenities are undergoing a significant transformation in the hospitality industry. The shift from single-use toiletry bottles to bulk dispensers is reshaping how hotels provide essential bathroom products to their guests. Many major chains are moving away from individual mini bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in favor of larger, refillable dispensers mounted on shower walls. This change is being driven by environmental concerns over plastic waste as well as potential cost savings for hotels. However, the switch to bulk dispensers remains controversial among some travelers and industry experts.
Environmental Impact
The primary argument in favor of bulk dispensers is reducing plastic waste. A typical 200-room hotel generates over 20,000 small plastic bottles of amenities per month. By switching to refillable dispensers, hotels can significantly cut down on this plastic usage. Marriott International estimates their move to larger bottles will eliminate 500 million small plastic bottles annually across their properties.
However, critics argue that the environmental benefits are overstated. The large refillable dispensers are still made of plastic, just in larger quantities. There are also concerns about increased water and energy usage to clean and refill the dispensers. Some suggest compostable or recyclable packaging for individual amenities could be a better solution.
The used bar of soap, half empty shampoo bottles – where do they go?
Guest Experience
Hotels claim that bulk dispensers allow them to offer higher quality products in larger quantities. Many travelers appreciate not having to ration out tiny bottles during longer stays. The dispensers are also more convenient for families sharing a bathroom.
On the other hand, some guests have hygiene concerns about shared dispensers. There are worries about tampering, contamination, or improper cleaning between guests. The dispensers can also be difficult for some guests to use, especially those with mobility issues or visual impairments. Many travelers simply prefer the luxury feel of individual branded toiletries.
Wall-mounted bulk dispensers for shampoo, conditioner, and soap – an eco-friendly alternative to single-use bottles in hotel bathrooms
Cost Considerations
For hotels, bulk dispensers offer potential cost savings on both product and labor. Less staff time is required to replace individual bottles daily. Buying products in bulk is generally cheaper than individual packaging as well.
However, there are upfront costs to install wall-mounted dispensers in every bathroom. Ongoing maintenance and cleaning of the dispensers is also required. Some hotels have found refilling dispensers to be more time-consuming than expected for housekeeping staff.
Future Trends in Hotel Room Amenities
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see further innovations in hotel room amenities. Some emerging trends include:
Smart dispensers: These high-tech solutions can track usage, alert staff when refills are needed, and even personalize product selection based on guest preferences.
Eco-friendly formulations: Hotels are increasingly partnering with brands that offer organic, natural, or locally-sourced products to appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.
Customizable amenities: Some hotels are experimenting with allowing guests to choose their preferred toiletries before arrival, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Waterless products: To further reduce plastic waste and water consumption, some hotels are exploring solid shampoo bars, conditioning bars, and other waterless toiletry options.
Amenity kits: Instead of permanent fixtures, some hotels are providing guests with reusable toiletry bags filled with eco-friendly miniatures, combining the convenience of individual products with a more sustainable approach.
These innovations demonstrate that the debate over hotel room amenities extends beyond just bulk dispensers versus single-use bottles. The future of hotel toiletries will likely involve a combination of approaches, tailored to each property’s unique needs and guest expectations.”
The Verdict
The debate over bulk dispensers versus individual bottles ultimately comes down to balancing environmental goals, guest preferences, and hotel operations. There’s no clear consensus yet on the best approach. Many hotels are testing both options or taking a hybrid approach.
As the industry continues to evolve, the ideal solution may involve new innovations in packaging and product delivery. Compostable materials, concentrated formulas, and smart dispensing systems could address concerns on all sides. Hotels will need to carefully consider their specific guest demographics and brand positioning when deciding on amenity strategies.
Ultimately, providing a positive guest experience while operating sustainably will require ongoing dialogue between hotels, travelers, and product suppliers. The bathroom amenities debate highlights the complex challenges of greening the hospitality industry.
As part of the overall guest experience, hotels include amenities in their guest rooms and bathrooms. While they make life easier for guests, they have also become a burden on the environment. Guest amenities generate a significant amount of plastic waste, which ends up in landfills or, worse, the ocean. If plastic waste is not recycled, it can take tens to hundreds of years to decompose. When it breaks down, it also degrades into hazardous microplastic particles. Offering fewer amenities is an obvious approach to cutting pollution. However, neither guests nor hotels are always prepared to do without certain amenities.
Using eco-friendly guest toiletries is one alternative. Environmentally friendly hotel amenities made of bamboo or other natural materials are available for several of these items.
Sustainable Alternatives
Replacing Plastic Shampoo and Lotion Bottles
Replacing plastic shampoo and lotion bottles. Eco-friendly hotel toiletries available today in 2022
As more travellers and governments become aware of the problem, an increasing number of hotels are taking steps to combat pollution caused by amenities. Typically, small bottles of shampoo and shower gel are the first targets. Smaller hotels and larger chains, such as Marriott, have started to replace them with wall-mounted refillable dispensers.
Shampoos and lotions used to refill these wall mount dispensers come in 5 litre and 10 litre cans.
Sustainable Hotel Amenities Packaging
What’s the problem with packaging? Are they not made of paper and are they not biodegradable?
The majority of hotels pack guest amenities on paper boards. However, they are not completely biodegradable. A coating applied to the top of the boxes to give them a matt or glossy appearance is actually a very thin layer of plastic. So, when selecting packaging for your amenities, look for something made of recycled paper and free of plastic coatings. Today, various options are available for making the packaging of hotel amenities eco-friendly, like – paper pouches, recycled Kraft paper boxes, lamination free paper boxes and even elegant matte finished bio-plastic pouches made of corn and rice starch.
Dental Kit: Bamboo Toothbrushes and Toothpaste Tablets
The most well-known and popular benefit is that a bamboo-based toothbrush eliminates unnecessary waste while providing the same level of cleaning as a plastic brush. Recycling, reusing, or composting your toothbrush packaging and tossing it has never been easier.
Another advantage of bamboo is that it is antimicrobial by nature. Cutting boards and kitchen utensils are made of wood and bamboo for a reason. Unlike plastic, the bamboo’s internal properties kill bacteria that penetrate its surface, providing long-term protection against harmful bacteria.
Toothpaste tablets, or “tooth tabs,” take your regular paste, remove the water, and compress it into a pill-like shape. If you’re used to squeezing a toothpaste tube twice a day, it may take some time to adjust to a tablet, but the instructions are straightforward:
Place one tablet in your mouth.
Gently chew the tablet and mix with your saliva to form a paste.
Wet your toothbrush and brush for two minutes.
It may take an extra rinse or two to remove any remaining grit, but your mouth will be as fresh and clean as if you had used regular toothpaste.
Environmentally-friendly packaging: Most tablets are packaged in glass or tin containers that can be reused or recycled. It can even come in compostable pouches for hotels. All of this contributes to a reduction in the amount of plastic used.
Shaving Kit: Bamboo Shaving Razor and Shaving Soap
The majority of razors in hotel rooms are made of plastic. Bamboo razors, like bamboo toothbrushes, are becoming more widely available. A bamboo razor is an excellent substitute. The razor’s handle is made of bamboo. It is naturally antibacterial, water-resistant, and completely biodegradable, and it grows in a sustainable manner. The razor has two blades and provides a smooth shave.
While considering to replace shaving razors with bamboo shaving razors, the shaving gel sachets are also to be considered. They mostly come in plastic laminated foil sachets. The alternative to this is shaving soaps.
Shaving soaps have existed since the early 1800’s but are less commonly used in the mainstream today, which is a crying shame. For hotels, rather than including a sachet of shave gel in the Shaving Kit, it could be replaced with a 10 gram shaving soap.
Use a loofah to lather the soap. Using loofah for shaving will not only help you to cleanse the dead skin from your facial skin, but it will also work for softening your skin so that you can get a ‘PERFECT’ shaving experience.
Bamboo Comb
Bamboo combs, like bamboo toothbrushes and razors, are becoming increasingly popular. The advantage of bamboo combs is that guests will want to take them with them, and the pocket size will entice them to keep them in their purses as well. We believe that guests will never throw it away.
Bio-degradable Shower Caps and Sanitary Disposal Bags
Shower caps and sanitary disposal bags are commonly made of PVC or other types of plastic. These are now available in biodegradable materials thanks to the development of bio-plastics made from rice and corn starch. According to studies, these shower caps and sanitary disposal bags will decompose 90 percent in soil after 300 days.
Making the Switch to Sustainable Guest Toiletries
Today, if hotels so desire, there are options and alternatives to transforming into eco-friendly guest toiletries. Hotels would undoubtedly end up paying more than their plastic counterparts.
The good news is that travelers are willing to pay a premium for environmentally friendly accommodations and for hotels that provide eco-friendly guest amenities. According to a Nielsen survey, 73 percent of millennials worldwide are willing to pay more for services from companies that are committed to making a positive environmental impact. Most travelers understand that being environmentally conscious can sometimes be more expensive. As a result, from a financial standpoint, there may be a positive impact on revenues, either through a higher room rate or a higher occupancy rate. However, when introducing eco-friendly hotel amenities, costs should not rise disproportionately. Many hotels choose to provide fewer in-room amenities while charging a slightly higher price for the ones that remain.
The need to address environmental concerns and hotel sustainability practices has become an important issue for travelers, hoteliers, and managers around the world. Apart from this, independently a hotel does not have a significant negative impact on the environment. However, together, as an industry, they consume a large number of resources. Hotels and other accommodation providers account for 2% of the 5% global CO2 emissions from the tourism sector. It is estimated that 75% of the hotel’s environmental impact is directly related to excessive resource consumption and unnecessary operating costs.
Sustainability is not just about CO2 emissions alone. Sustainability means meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Apart from natural resources, we also need social and economic resources.
This article covers small tips to start your hotel’s sustainability initiatives. These tips will not break your bank.
Train the Team
Support and contribution from your team is the most important element for the success of your sustainability initiatives. Call your entire hotel staff for townhall and announce that you are starting to adopt hotel sustainability practices and hence require their full support in this regard.
Train your team on the basics of hotel sustainability practices:
Turn off lights and heating/air conditioning in rooms or empty areas only for employees.
Always check for leaks and respond to leaking faucets and toilets.
Close/open the curtains to reduce the need for heating/air conditioning.
Constantly looking for unused hotel equipment (e.g. kitchen fan) left on.
Report opportunities to reduce resource consumption.
Make sure all rooms have reusable towels and sheets.
Recruit Local
Ask your recruiter or HR manager to always give priority to employees who are near to your hotel and can travel to work daily. Generally, what hotels do is recruit employees irrespective of their hometown and then provide them with accommodation and food facilities. By recruiting locally, you are adding the following benefits:
Local empowerment – while providing employment opportunities to locals, you are empowering your local community. This is also a sustainable initiative. In the long run, this approach builds trust and support for your company among the locals and eventually opens up great opportunities. This also enables you to get on the good books of local authorities – municipality, local government, police and son.
Reduce staff attrition – attrition is a huge cost in any industry. Employees staying nearby tend to stay with the hotel for a longer period than others.
Reduce cost on accommodation.
Procure Local
Ask your procurement team to give priority to local vendors even if their prices are slightly higher. Considering fruits, vegetables, and meat, local produce can be of great quality and have lesser chemicals. Again, here you are not only supporting the local community but also cutting the carbon emission in your supply chain.
To go further an extra step, you could train local households to grow fresh fruits and vegetables in their backyard and supply it to you. You can also consider other products for this.
Train your Suppliers
Call all your suppliers and let them know that you are initiating hotel sustainability practices and expect them to support them in your movement. This is what you need to ask them to do:
Do not add any packaging if not essential – be it plastic or not.
Try to use reusable crates or boxes while transporting loose items rather than adding packaging.
Ask them if they’d take back the boxes and reuse them for your next order.
Discussion with your suppliers can generate inputs and ideas to reduce environmental impacts.
Stop offering water in disposable plastic bottles
Most hotels place one or two bottles of water for the guests in the rooms. These are most often plastic bottles. These could be easily switched to glass bottles with a very minimum investment. Along with this, every floor can have a water filter publicly accessible to guests. This way, the guest can easily refill their bottles without bothering your staff.
Bed Linens – bed linens are changed only once in two/three days during a guest’s stay. If the guest needs the linen to be changed, a tent card provided on the side table that says “Please change my linens” is placed on the bed by the guest.
Bath Linens – similar is the case with bath lines, guests are reminded of the gallons of water being wasted in laundry and request them to hang their towels. If they need it changed, they could drop the towel on the floor or put it in the laundry basket.
Download this PDF to help you more on implementation.
Offering lots of toiletries to your guests no more impresses them. Also do not get into the thinking that guests become happy when they find more freebies. No! They came to your hotel to stay, relax or experience your hospitality. Not for the toiletries.
Offer basic toiletries and make other toiletries be available on request. Place a tent card in the bathroom saying that you’d be more than happy to provide them with any toiletry they may require.
Switch to Dispensers
Stop using plastic bottled shampoos and lotions. Instead, place dispensers in your shower area that dispenses shampoo and conditioner. This not only reduces plastic waste, but it also reduces wastage of liquids, transportation costs, and the overall cost of guest toiletries.
Tent Cards and Signs for Guests
You could make the following tent cards or small signages to train the guests to reduce, reuse and recycle:
Save Power – to ensure that lights, TV and air conditioners are off while they leave their room.
Reuse Towels – place a nicely designed signage in the bathroom asking the guests to reuse towels.
Reuse Bed Lines – most hotels now change the bed linens once in three days or two days during a guest’s stay. Place a tent card saying that you change the bed linens only once in two/three days during their stay. If they’d like it changed, place this tent card on the bed.
Amenities on Request – place a tent card in the bathroom advising the guest to call the housekeeping department if they need any toiletries or amenities.
Train your Guests
There are many opportunities to reduce environmental impact while a guest is staying at your resort, but these things are not within your control. However, certain things can be explained to your guests at the time of checking, and you can be rest assured your guests will follow the same. These things should be explained to the guest in a manner that the guest also takes pride in making their stay sustainable.
Along with the signs. you can tell the guests to practice during the check-in process:
If you do not have automatic presence sensors in your room – feel free to ask them to kindly turn off the lights, television and air conditioner/heaters while they exit the room.
Tell them that you have a towel hanger in your bathroom where they can hang their towels for reuse. If they wish to change their towels, they could either drop it in the laundry basket or elsewhere and your housekeeping staff would replace it with fresh towels. Tell them they can always call the housekeeping desk for fresh towels.
Tell them that the linens are changed on alternate days during their stay.
Tell them that any toiletry or amenities they require is just a call away and your staff will be happy to bring them to you.
Sort the Waste
There are complex and simple ways to sort waste. Complex processes can be adopted by larger hotels. Small and medium hotels can adopt waste sorting as simple as Wet, Dry, and Recyclable.
If your waste is not sorted properly, it could end up in landfills which is one of the most difficult situations the governments are trying to solve.
Here is an article on Hotel Waste Measurement Methodology by Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. These practices are adopted by large hotels, but this could give you more insights and identify practices that can be adopted in your hotel depending upon your size and operations.
Properly and nicely advertise your hotel sustainability practices within your premises where your employees and guests can see and appreciate it. Today, guests tend to feel connected to hotels that practice sustainability.
There are more ways you can start your sustainability initiatives. Some require considerable investment, some might increase your costs and some initiatives like the above are inexpensive and could be a starting point to bigger initiatives.
