How to Make a Hotel Eco-Friendly
The hospitality industry is evolving, and sustainability is now a key focus for hotels and guest accommodations. With guests becoming more environmentally conscious, offering an eco-friendly stay is no longer just a nice touch - it’s a necessity. From eco-friendly toiletries to reducing water and energy waste, here’s how to make a hotel eco-friendly on a small budget while enhancing the guest experience for repeat bookings.
Why Hotels Should Be Eco-Friendly
Three compelling reason why your hotel should be eco-friendly include:
- 71% of global travellers express a desire to travel more sustainably over the coming year, marking a 10% increase from the previous year [2].
- 73% of travellers are more likely to choose accommodations that advertise their sustainability practices [1].
- Hotel guests are willing to pay up to 75% more for eco-friendly accommodation options [1].
Sustainability is not just a trend - it’s what guests are seeking. Making small changes, such as switching to eco-friendly toiletries and using local produce, can help reduce your environmental footprint while improving your brand image. These simple adjustments are crucial when considering how to make a hotel eco-friendly.
What Toiletries to Put in Guest Bathrooms
One of the biggest sustainability shifts hotels can make is in their choice of toiletries. Traditional single-use plastic bottles and chemically-laden products contribute to massive waste and pollution. If you’re wondering how to make a hotel eco-friendly, start by revamping your guest bathroom essentials. Here’s what to offer instead:
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Refillable dispensers - Cut down on plastic waste by switching to stylish, refillable bottles for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
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Eco-friendly packaging - Choose toiletries packaged in reusable, compostable or recyclable materials.
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Natural ingredients - Avoid harsh chemicals like parabens and sulphates. Opt for plant-based, organic options that are gentle on the skin and the environment.
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Vegan and cruelty-free options - Appeal to conscious consumers by ensuring your toiletries are not tested on animals.
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Eco-certified brands - Partner with suppliers that use COSMOS Certified ingredients, such as New Dawn Wholesale, which offers a free sample pack so you can try eco-friendly toiletries before committing: Free Samples.
Other Ways to Make Your Hotel More Eco-Friendly
Beyond toiletries, here are more ways to embrace sustainability and further explore how to make a hotel eco-friendly.
1. Source Local Produce for a “Sense of Place”
Guests love experiencing the local culture, and food and drink is a big part of that. Sourcing fresh, organic, and locally made produce:
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Reduces your carbon footprint
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Supports local farmers and businesses
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Enhances your hotel’s unique identity
Consider offering local craft beers, wines, or artisan chocolates as welcome gifts to create a memorable, sustainable touch.
2. Reduce Water and Energy Waste
Simple but effective measures include:
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Installing low-flow taps to cut water waste
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Using LED lighting to lower energy consumption
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Encouraging guests to reuse towels and linens instead of daily replacements
3. Reduce Single-Use Plastics
If you want to know how to make a hotel eco-friendly, reducing single-use plastic is key. Ditch mini plastic toiletry bottles, plastic straws, cutlery, and water bottles in favour of:
- Strong Refillable Recycled Plastic Toiletry Bottles
- Glass or stainless steel water bottles
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Paper straws
4. Introduce Recycling and Composting
Make it easy for guests and staff to recycle by placing bins in rooms and common areas. If your hotel has a restaurant, compost food waste to reduce landfill impact.
Market Your Eco-Friendly Approach
Going green is great, but make sure your guests know about it! Highlight your sustainability efforts on:
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Your website and booking pages
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Social media (behind-the-scenes of eco-initiatives work well!)
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In-room welcome guides
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Hotel newsletters
Final Thoughts
By making these changes, your hotel can reduce its environmental footprint, attract eco-conscious guests, and improve your reputation. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your hotel more eco-friendly, small steps - like switching to sustainable toiletries and using local produce make a huge difference.
Get Started Today!
Try our free sample pack of eco-friendly hotel toiletries: Order Here.
References
- TravelPerk. (2023). Sustainable Travel Statistics & Trends. From: https://www.travelperk.com/blog/sustainable-travel-statistics-trends
- Hotel Business. (2023). 71% of Global Travelers Want to Travel Sustainably. From: https://hotelbusiness.com/71-of-global-travelers-want-to-travel-sustainably
