HOTEL BUSINESS REVIEW May FOCUS: Eco-Friendly Practices
A recent study found that 72% of global travelers are inclined to make sustainable travel choices, and are more likely to book an accommodation if they know it is eco-friendly. Obviously, hotels must take action to address these issues-not only because it's a moral imperative but because it makes good business sense. One leading hotel chain recently committed to only buying furniture from reclaimed wood. Another replaced their mini-fridges and coffee machines in each room and instead, provide them in a communal area to reduce electricity usage. One hotel chain collects their food waste and converts it into biofuel, and another became the first to make use of environmental blockchain technology to offset its carbon footprint. Guests can spend their credits on initiatives that "develop, protect and conserve natural ecosystems." The May issue of the Hotel Business Review will document what some hotels are doing to integrate sustainable, eco-friendly practices into their operations.
This month's feature articles...
There are multiple ways hotels can work with their guests to combat extraordinarily high utility costs. A study conducted by the author, in conjunction with two colleagues, suggests that it's possible to engage guests in "the nudge," a time-tested method employed by utility companies to enlist the help of their customers to managing home heating/electrical and air conditioning costs. READ MORE
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New consumer research from TRSA measures guest sentiment for daily linen changes and environmentally friendly laundering. These two coexist when water and energy conservation practices are used and greater professionalism in linen management is practiced, supporting hotel profitability. Economies of scale reached by larger laundries that smaller on-premises laundries (OPLs) cannot achieve are highlighted here. Green benefits of renting linen as part of outsourcing laundry service are described. READ MORE
Over-cleaning and disinfecting continue to expose guests and employees to hazardous chemicals while doing little to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Now, travelers are looking for more transparency around the cleaning practices of lodging properties. Hotels can address these concerns by choosing certified green cleaning and disinfecting products; adopting more sustainable protocols; and promoting equity for housekeeping staff. READ MORE
Sustainability, well-being and purposeful stewardship have been core pillars for Banyan Tree Group since our inception in 1994. Through the comprehensive Stay for Good program – a structured framework aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – we focus on action for well-being, culture, climate, resource and biodiversity conservation to create a better world for all stakeholders now and in the future. (61 words) READ MORE
Sustainability is a critical factor for successful business, and the hospitality industry is no exception. Expecting a full recovery this year following the pandemic, hotels need to reevaluate their sustainable initiatives starting in the guestroom. From climate control and occupancy sensors to lighting and indoor air quality, there are a myriad of technologies to help hotels achieve their sustainability goals. READ MORE
Evaluating and exploring ways a brand may invest and expand its eco-friendly, sustainable, and regenerative programs is vital in today's competitive market. Taking a wholistic approach to developing an effective brand strategy and integrating it across multiple touchpoints is paramount for a successful foundation. The future of travel depends on the decisions that brands are making now with important elements that should be considered. READ MORE
Guests now have more choices for their stays, and wellness is a major factor driving their decisions. Trends show more owners making modest investments in design coupled with strategic communications, paying off in word-of-mouth, brand loyalty and repeat business. Integrated design approaches can provide reductions in operating costs, water use and energy consumption, making the venue simultaneously greener and healthier. READ MORE
What is sustainable development? According to the International Institute for Sustainable Development, "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." As guests demand more environmental and social efforts, brands need to take action. Hoteliers must now demonstrate that they are purposeful about sustainability, hold strong ethical standards and operate responsibly in everything they do. Here is some guidance to move in the right direction. READ MORE
Sustainable practices within hotels are tending, but without intentionality and a tangible positive impact they can be meaningless. At Legacy Vacation Resorts, benefitting people and the planet is paramount to our daily operations. We strive to do much more than a typical business overstating green initiatives and waste reduction, and instead, create real systems change through various programs and initiatives. READ MORE
Hotels at every level, branded, boutique, full-service, lifestyle, or luxury are focusing on more impactful and well-rounded sustainability initiatives. Highlighting the eco-friendly practices of three very different properties, all located in central North Carolina, demonstrates the importance of green travel and the different ways they all have contributed to reducing carbon emissions, offering their guests a cleaner and safer environment. READ MORE
The hotel industry must take meaningful and thoughtful action to genuinely protect the environment and avert greenwashing. Alma is implementing an ambitious solar power project that proves lessening your carbon footprint makes good business sense. Engaging staff in sustainability measures, transitioning to paperless solutions, a back of house tour for guests and more help contribute to the "triple bottom line". READ MORE
The road to hell…is paved with good intentions! Your CEO has announced the group's embarkation on a voyage of "sustainable hotel operations", effective immediately. How does this corporate aspiration translate into action at ground level in the operations? How does this lofty good intention not end up as an exercise in greenwashing? READ MORE
Honey (2008) noted that eco-tourism platforms include travel to natural destinations; minimizing impact; build environmental awareness; provide direct financial benefits for conservation; provide financial benefits and power for local people; respect local culture; and support human rights and democratic movements. Eco-tourism has a long history and a relevant story to tell. The lodging industry through eco-friendly and sustainable practices can add to that story. READ MORE
Can a posh estate be turned into one of Belize's most talked-about eco-resorts? Easily, say the owners of the San Ignacio Resort Hotel whose immodest mission, creating a place to sojourn that had no ecological equal, came to fruition. What separates this property from the ordinary? Iguanas. Impeccable personal service. And a commitment to Mother Earth that impresses even the most seasoned traveler. READ MORE
Society is changing, according to the Travel Agent central statistics, over 70% of travellers say they want to travel more sustainably. We need to align the industry to our customer's values so we can create a type of industry that continues to evolve and thrive for years to come. Running a Green business is not just the "trendy" or "kind" thing to do, it is the "smart" thing to do. READ MORE
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As the hotel industry transitions to a more familiar position, it is still necessary for hotels to emphasize in their marketing the health protocols they have implemented to ensure guest safety and wellness. Above all, guests need to be reassured that every precaution is being taken to safeguard their well-being. Additionally, there are other marketing strategies that hotels can implement as a way to boost their business. For example, neighborhood marketing is a tactic that relies heavily on appealing to local audiences. Incentives targeting locals can fulfill the craving that some people have for time away from home, but aren't ready to hop on a plane. Another viable strategy is to promote experiences in nature. After being stuck inside for so long, many people are looking for hotels to help them re-connect with the great outdoors. The June Hotel Business Review will focus on the marketing strategies that some hotels are adopting and how they are benefiting from them.