Green Getaways: How Hotels Can Adopt Sustainable Practices
As sustainability becomes a growing priority, the demand for green initiatives rises. More hotels are stepping up to reduce their environmental footprint and provide eco-friendly experiences for their guests.
We are proud to be a vendor for Green Key Global, a leading eco-certification program in the hotel and lodging industry. Green Key Global works with hotels to implement sustainable initiatives that conserve resources, reduce waste, and contribute positively to the environment.
Through our partnerships and observations, we see hotels taking these impactful actions to meet green standards:
- Reducing Single-Use Plastics
- Waste Minimization
- Water Conservation
Reducing Single-Use Plastics: Many hotels are replacing plastic water bottles and toiletries with reusable options. They also provide reusable bottles and hydration stations, encouraging guests to refill rather than use disposable items.
- Educate guests about the environmental impact of single-use plastics through in-room signage, encouraging them to use reusable options.
- Partner with local suppliers to offer sustainable, refillable toiletries, such as shampoo and soap dispensers, instead of single-use bottles.
- Offer reusable water bottles in guest rooms and hotel stores for a sustainable option throughout their stay. Learn how Marriott St. Louis Grand offered bottles while unlocking donations to charity here.
“Whether through our sustainability endeavors or collaborations with organizations like Fill it Forward, each step we take creates a positive impact on humanity. Our commitment is not just to make a difference but to make a Grand one wherever we do business!”
Theona Simbrat,
General Manager
Waste Minimization: Hotels are implementing waste reduction programs, from composting food waste to extensive recycling programs. Many also encourage guests to participate by offering reusable containers for taking food on the go, helping to minimize single-use packaging and reduce food waste.
- Replace disposable cutlery, cups, and packaging with compostable or reusable options in restaurants, cafes, and room service. Learn more about Fill it Forward’s Borrow program for food service operators here.
- Set up composting stations in kitchens and dining areas to repurpose food waste.
Water Conservation: Hotels are incorporating low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets, and towel reuse programs to save water and reduce waste.
- Encourage guests to participate in water-saving practices by using in-room signage promoting shorter showers and turning the tap off.
- Equip rooms and public restrooms with sensor-activated faucets to prevent water waste when taps are left running.
- Learn how Fill it Forward, in collaboration with WSP, calculates environmental metrics and tracks water conservation efforts here.
Learn more about how Fill it Forward helps hotels tell a sustainable story while reducing costs here.
