According to Deloitte, 95% of business travelers surveyed believe the hotel industry should be undertaking “green” initiatives. (gourmetmarketing.com)* “Millennials are twice as likely to support brands with strong management of environmental and social issues, and expect brands to not only manage their impact but communicate it,” says Diana Verde Nieto. She is co-founder and CEO of Positive Luxury, an organization that recognizes “luxury lifestyle brands that not only take pride in their craftsmanship, service and design; but also care for their employees and suppliers, and work hard to protect our planet”. (scmp.com)*
Most of your guests and prospects are under the impression that you should be doing what you can to be environmentally friendly. Are you? Not only will you be doing your part for the environment, pleasing guests who feel happy to be a part of the process, but you can save money by putting these 3 practices to work! 1. Increase Water Conservation
Anticipate a greater commitment to water efficiency within the Hospitality industry this year. Of the professionals who responded to the 2017 Green Lodging Trends survey:
Approximately 57% of hotel owners said that at least 75% of their guest room faucets featured low-flow aerators
In 75% of the hotels surveyed, another 89% of guest rooms included low-flow shower heads.
2. Improve Energy Management
Also foreseen in the Hospitality industry is a significant emphasis placed on conserving and reducing energy use. This will include:
Complimentary EV parking
Energy-efficient HVAC systems and maintenance routines
Green roofs that feature solar panel systems and gardens
3.Towel/Linen Reuse Program
Guests may not always recognize how many resources it takes to have housekeeping wash all towels/linens every day of their stay, and a small awareness campaign on your part can put them in the know and engage them in your efforts.
Place a small printed card in each bathroom informing your guests of your commitment to the environment and letting them know how they can be involved: towels placed on hooks will be left behind so they can use them again and those left anywhere else will be taken away.
Do you already have these policies in place? If so, CONGRATS on doing your part! If not, start looking at how you can begin today.