Sustainability: A Driving Force in the Hospitality Industry

The Importance of Sustainability and CSR for Businesses

Sustainability is no longer optional for businesses. It's a necessity for ethical operations, positive reputations, and financial success.

A Just Capital study found that companies excelling in environmental indicators enjoy a higher median return-on-equity than their counterparts.

Why Sustainability Matters in Hospitality

The hospitality industry, along with transportation and food and beverage, significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

Sustainability is a moral imperative, but it's also sound business sense. Today's consumers and employees favor purpose-driven companies.

Millennials are increasingly drawn to sustainable travel and work environments, with studies showing a strong correlation between sustainability and employee loyalty.

Sustainability Strategies for Hotels and Hospitality Businesses

Water, waste, and energy use are significant environmental impact areas for hotels. Here are three sustainability trends shaping the industry:

Trend #1 Reducing Consumption

Energy Efficiency: Replace individual mini-fridges and coffee machines with communal amenities. Invest in energy-efficient appliances and automated energy management systems.

Water Conservation: Reduce shower water pressure, install leak-detecting systems, and promote towel reuse.

Food Waste: Source food locally, grow food onsite, reduce plate waste, and expand plant-based offerings.

Trend #2 Use of Technology

Contactless Services: Contactless check-ins and keyless room entry enhance convenience and reduce friction.

Guest Messaging Platforms: Guests can order room service, book amenities, and communicate with staff digitally, reducing paper waste.

Digital Guest Room Tablets: Eliminate paper menus, flyers, and directories, switching to digital versions.

Trend #3 Measure & Manage

Real-Time Monitoring: Track water use and energy consumption, empowering guests to reduce their impact.

Digital Platforms: Tools like fluttrfluttr and Con-Serve help hotels monitor and manage energy use, leading to reduced emissions.

Examples of Sustainable Hotel Management in Action

Many hotel brands are embracing sustainability initiatives.

Meliá Hotels International: Ranked as the most sustainable hotel chain worldwide by SAM Corporate Sustainability Assessment.

1 Hotels: Focuses on sustainability throughout its operations, from building design to food sourcing.

1893 Restaurant at EHL Lausanne Campus: Emphasizes sustainable dining with organic gardens and AI-powered solutions to minimize food waste.

A Call to Action for Hospitality Leaders

The hospitality industry can play a leading role in addressing environmental challenges. Embracing sustainability unlocks benefits like cost reduction, improved guest loyalty, and a lasting legacy as trailblazers.

The time to transform towards sustainability is now. Together, we can redefine hospitality, one sustainable step at a time.