Hotels, bustling with guests, events and amenities, are significant consumers of energy and resources. This blog post is for hotel owners seeking ways to enhance sustainability, reduce energy consumption and cut down on their energy bills. Let’s explore why sustainability matters for hotels and how sustainability strategies can make a positive impact on both the environment and their finances.
Why Sustainability Matters for Hotels:
Hotels are increasingly adopting sustainability goals, this is due to needing to align with the broader environmental objectives of their chains as well as showcasing a commitment to reduce environmental impact with resonates with conscious consumers. Beyond environmental responsibility, there are tangible economic benefits. By curbing energy use and embracing sustainability, hotels can significantly reduce their energy bills.
Assessing Current practices:
The first step towards improving sustainability for a hotel is through a comprehensive audit. This involves evaluating energy usage, water consumption, and waste management practices. To evaluate energy usage one method used is to collect half-hourly power consumption data. This data can illuminate peak energy usage times, allowing identification of opportunities for reduction. Another method is to estimate power consumption by room, considering factors like appliances and lighting types, providing a breakdown for each space. Another area to consider is the calculation of heat loss through windows, doors and walls. This should give an overview of the areas where energy is used and where it is wasted in the hotel.
Energy Efficiency Tips:
Reducing energy use in hotels involves practical solutions, from draught excluders to radiator reflective foam, there are numerous options. Generally, a large contributor to energy use is inefficient behavioural practices such as leaving lights or appliances on. Behavioural changes such as staff ensuring that all unnecessary appliances are switched off overnight, can complement technological solutions such as installation of energy meters and energy-efficient appliances. Longer term solutions such as investing in renewable energy sources, like solar panels can also contribute significantly to energy reduction.
Water Conservation Strategies:
Some examples of how hotels can reduce water use includes implementing low-flow faucets, showerheads and toilets which can help to substantially reduce water usage. Installing greywater systems for recycling water for use for landscaping and gardening are additional strategies for sustainable water management and use reduction.
Solutions for Reducing Waste:
Some ideas for reducing waste includes the classic mantra of “reduce, reuse, recycle” which holds true for hotels, establishing a culture of sustainability in both the staff members and the guests will assist with this. Establishing a composting scheme at the hotel as well as collaborating with suppliers that prioritise sustainable packaging are also useful steps in waste reduction.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility:
Hotels can extend their impact beyond their walls by sourcing products locally and engaging in community projects. Educating guests through in-room information and engagement programs can also help foster a sense of shared responsibility.
In conclusion, hotels have a myriad of options to become more sustainable, positively impacting both the planet and their bottom line. At CREAS, we offer comprehensive reviews, audits, and services tailored to elevate your hotel’s sustainability. For a greener, more efficient future, make sure to get in touch with us!