Sustainability Is Good Business
Sustainability isn't just about saving the planet—though that matters. It's also about saving money, attracting guests, and building a resilient business.
72% of travelers say they're more likely to choose accommodations with sustainable practices. Among millennials and Gen Z, that number exceeds 80%.
The question isn't whether sustainability matters. It's how to implement it effectively.
The Business Case for Sustainability
Cost Reduction
Many sustainable practices directly reduce operating costs:
Energy Efficiency: LED lighting, smart thermostats, and efficient equipment reduce utility bills by 20-30%.
Water Conservation: Low-flow fixtures and smart irrigation cut water costs significantly.
Waste Reduction: Less waste means lower disposal costs and potential recycling revenue.
Food Waste Prevention: Better inventory management improves margins.
Revenue Enhancement
Sustainability also drives revenue:
Premium Positioning: Eco-conscious travelers often pay more for sustainable options.
Market Differentiation: Stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Corporate Business: Companies increasingly require sustainable vendors.
Positive Reviews: Sustainability efforts generate favorable guest feedback.
Risk Management
Forward-thinking sustainability protects against future risks:
Regulatory Compliance: Get ahead of coming regulations.
Resource Security: Reduce dependence on increasingly scarce resources.
Reputation Protection: Avoid backlash from environmentally harmful practices.
High-Impact Sustainable Practices
Energy Management
Quick Wins:
- LED lighting throughout
- Motion sensors in low-traffic areas
- Smart thermostats with occupancy sensing
- Equipment scheduling (turn off when not needed)
Bigger Investments:
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems
- Solar panels where feasible
- Building insulation improvements
- Energy management systems
Guest Involvement:
- In-room energy conservation reminders
- Opt-in daily housekeeping (linen reuse)
- Electric vehicle charging
Water Conservation
Quick Wins:
- Low-flow showerheads and faucets
- Dual-flush toilets
- Fix leaks promptly
- Efficient dishwashers
Bigger Investments:
- Rainwater harvesting
- Greywater recycling
- Drought-resistant landscaping
- Smart irrigation systems
Guest Involvement:
- Towel reuse programs
- Shorter shower encouragement
- Water conservation messaging
Waste Reduction
Quick Wins:
- Recycling programs
- Composting food waste
- Eliminating single-use plastics
- Digital receipts and documents
Bigger Investments:
- On-site composting systems
- Packaging-free supplier agreements
- Donation programs for usable items
Guest Involvement:
- Clear recycling instructions
- Refillable amenity dispensers
- Bring-your-own programs
Food Sustainability
Sourcing:
- Local suppliers (reduced transport emissions)
- Seasonal menus (less storage and transport)
- Sustainable seafood choices
- Plant-forward options
Operations:
- Inventory management to reduce waste
- Composting food scraps
- Proper portioning
- Creative use of "imperfect" produce
Guest Engagement:
- Source transparency on menus
- Plant-based options highlighted
- Doggy bags encouraged
Implementing Sustainability
Start With an Audit
Before making changes, understand your current impact:
Energy Audit: Where is energy being used and wasted?
Water Audit: How much water, and where does it go?
Waste Audit: What's being thrown away?
Supply Chain Review: Where do products come from?
Set Measurable Goals
Vague commitments don't drive action. Set specific targets:
- Reduce energy use by 20% within 2 years
- Eliminate single-use plastics by end of year
- Achieve 50% waste diversion through recycling/composting
- Source 30% of food from local suppliers
Prioritize by Impact
Focus efforts where they'll make the biggest difference:
1. High impact, low cost: Quick wins that build momentum 2. High impact, higher cost: Strategic investments 3. Lower impact, low cost: Easy additions 4. Lower impact, high cost: Usually skip these
Engage Your Team
Sustainability requires everyone's involvement:
Education: Help staff understand why it matters.
Empowerment: Give them authority to implement sustainable practices.
Recognition: Celebrate sustainability achievements.
Ideas: Frontline staff often have the best suggestions.
Communicate to Guests
Don't be shy about your efforts:
Website: Dedicated sustainability page.
In-Property: Signage explaining initiatives.
At Booking: Highlight eco-friendly features.
Social Media: Share stories and progress.
But avoid greenwashing—only claim what you actually do.
Measuring and Reporting
Key Metrics
Energy: kWh per guest night or per cover
Water: Gallons per guest night or per cover
Waste: Pounds to landfill, diversion rate
Carbon: CO2 equivalent emissions
Certifications
Consider third-party certifications:
- LEED: Building sustainability
- Green Key: Hotel environmental certification
- Green Restaurant Association: Restaurant certification
- B Corp: Overall business impact
Reporting
Share your progress:
- Annual sustainability reports
- Progress updates to guests
- Industry benchmark participation
The Technology Connection
Technology enables more effective sustainability:
Energy Management Systems: Automated control based on occupancy and conditions.
Smart Inventory: Reduce waste through better forecasting.
Digital Everything: Eliminate paper wherever possible.
Data Analytics: Identify patterns and opportunities.
How iHakken Supports Sustainability
iHakken helps hospitality businesses operate more sustainably:
Digital Menus: Eliminate printed menu waste entirely.
QR Codes: Replace printed materials with dynamic digital content.
Inventory Management: Reduce food waste through better tracking.
Paperless Operations: Digital records, reports, and communications.
Analytics: Understand patterns that reveal sustainability opportunities.
Build a business that's good for your bottom line and the planet. Try iHakken free and start your sustainability journey.
