The green shift is no longer a myth but a reality well underway. More and more travelers around the world are changing the way they travel, stay, and even eat. In fact, 83% would like to make sustainable tourism a priority in the future*. Labels and certifications are being created to support hosts in this effort and to guide hotels, vacation rentals, and bed-and-breakfasts through their ecological transition. But first and foremost, every accommodation can implement three simple actions that will allow it to align with the changing demands of the tourism market. What are they? * Booking.com survey 2021
Taking Action to Reduce Energy Consumption
To achieve this, each establishment can raise awareness among its guests to encourage them to reduce their energy consumption (turning off lights, not having towels laundered every day, closing windows, limiting air conditioning use, etc.), but it’s also important to show them that you’re committed to doing your part as well! It’s therefore a good idea to review the insulation of your accommodations, consider installing solar panels where possible, and choose green energy providers. (Note: The most environmentally conscious providers are listed on the Guide électricité verte website.) Sharing this information with guests helps engage them while enhancing your establishment’s reputation.
Reducing Waste and Eliminating Plastic
Hotels are no exception when it comes to the (all too) large amount of waste generated by their various activities. However, it is possible to significantly reduce—or even eliminate—this waste. As a result, more and more accommodations are settinga goal of zero plastic. Eliminating plastic is also a notable and commendable initiative, with excellent alternatives already available to replace cups, straws, individual packaging, and even water bottles. And in this regard, the Castalie is an excellent example to follow. Castalie’s mission is to provide access to high-quality water that’s good for you and for the planet.
Thanks to its hotel water dispensers, Castalie offers the ability to produce its own fresh water—still or sparkling. The water from each filtered water dispenser is bottled and consumed on-site in recyclable glass bottles. A must for corporate social responsibility in the hospitality industry and a true mark of quality and satisfaction for the end customer. Since 2011, more than 120 million plastic bottles have been avoided thanks to the brand’s expansion into the hospitality and restaurant industry, and Castalie’s goal is to reach 1 billion by 2025*! Finally, a key aspect of the hotel’s CSR policy is that Castalie water dispensers are eco-designed, ACS-certified (Certificate of Sanitary Compliance), and the materials used to manufacture them are replaceable and recyclable. * Castalie, offers and solutions
Choose healthy, natural, and eco-friendly products
In 2021, 73% of French people consider environmental protection when planning their trips*, and more than 30% are now aware that indoor pollution can be more harmful than outdoor pollution**. Prioritizing local suppliers and natural, healthy, and sustainable products will ensure satisfaction not only for customers but also for employees. When it comes to bedding, for example, Kipli has tailored its product line to the needs of the hospitality industry. The goal: to offer ultimate comfort and the most suitable materials for hotel use while respecting the environment and the health of both staff and guests. Kipli’s mattresses, box springs, bedding, and furniture for hotels and guesthouses are designed to stand the test of time. On average, a Kipli mattress will last twice as long as a synthetic mattress. And because synthetic materials are part of an outdated and polluting industry—the petrochemical industry—Kipli has decided to change course and work with more natural materials: natural latex, organic cotton, Lyocell, and solid wood. All without ever compromising on the comfort and quality of bedding that appeals to a wide audience. The result? An exceptional night’s sleep! For everyone, no matter their needs, and for the whole family.
This is, in particular, the group's choice H8 Collection, which offers unique experiences at its charming properties. Now, in many of their hotels (Hôtel Mathis, Hauts de Loire, Hôtel Mont Blanc, etc.), travelers can find baby mattresses, mattress protectors, and Kipli comforters, ensuring complete comfort and care for the health of all guests, young and old alike.
Every business in the hospitality industry can thus, at its own level, take steps and actions to benefit the planet and the health of its inhabitants. In a context where sustainable tourism is an increasingly shared and widely embraced value, this is a real bonus!