YES, our hospitality universe can become greener and moresustainable – Vol IX
CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN THE HOSPITALITY WORLD
A circular economy is an economic system aimed at minimizingwaste, recycling and making the most of resources. Unlike the traditionallinear economy, which follows a 'take, make, dispose' model, the circulareconomy is based on three principles:
1. Designing out waste and pollution - Products are designed to bemore durable, reusable, repairable, and recyclable. This reduces the creationof waste and pollution from the outset.
2. Keeping products and materials in use - Resources are kept inuse for as long as possible through practices like recycling, refurbishing,remanufacturing, and reusing. This extends the lifecycle of products andmaterials, reducing the need for new raw materials.
3. Regenerating natural systems- The circular economy seeks torestore and regenerate natural systems by returning valuable nutrients to thesoil and other ecosystems. This can be achieved through sustainableagricultural practices, composting, and other methods that support biodiversityand ecological health.
By shifting to a circular economy, businesses and societies canachieve greater sustainability, reduce environmental impact, and create economicopportunities through innovative practices and resource efficiency.
Here is a detailed exploration of how the hospitality industry canintegrate circular economy principles:
1. Resource Efficiency
Waste Reduction
Food Waste Management - Implementing food waste tracking systemsto monitor and reduce food waste. Partnering with local charities to donatesurplus food.
Packaging Waste - Reducing single-use plastics by usingbiodegradable or compostable packaging materials. Encouraging suppliers to useminimal packaging.
Recycling and Upcycling
Recycling Programs - Establishing robust recycling programs forpaper, plastic, glass, and metal. Providing clear signage and separate bins forguests and staff.
Upcycling Initiatives - Creative reuse of materials such asturning old linens into cleaning rags or repurposing glass bottles into décoritems.
Hand me downs - Donating or selling used furniture, equipment andfixtures within the industry instead of selling it as scrap
2. Sustainable Sourcing
Local and Ethical Procurement
Farm-to-Table - Partnering with local farmers and suppliers tosource fresh, seasonal produce. This reduces carbon emissions fromtransportation and supports local economies.
Fair Trade Products - Sourcing products like coffee, tea, and chocolatefrom fair trade certified suppliers to ensure ethical production practices.
Reusable and Refillable Products
Toiletry Dispensers - Installing bulk dispensers for shampoo,conditioner, and soap in guest rooms to replace single-use bottles.
Reusable Amenities - Offering reusable alternatives such as clothnapkins, glass water bottles, and metal straws.
3. Energy and Water Efficiency
Energy-efficient Appliances
LED Lighting - Replacing traditional bulbs with LED lights whichconsume less energy and have a longer lifespan.
Smart HVAC Systems - Using smart thermostats and HVAC systems thatadjust based on occupancy and weather conditions to optimize energy use.
Water-saving Fixtures
Low-flow Fixtures - Installing low-flow showerheads, faucets, andtoilets to reduce water usage without compromising guest experience.
Greywater Systems - Implementing greywater recycling systems toreuse water from showers and sinks for irrigation or toilet flushing.
4. Design for Longevity
Durable Furnishings
High-quality Materials - Investing in high-quality, durablefurniture and fixtures that withstand wear and tear and have longer life spans.
Refurbishment Programs- Regularly refurbishing and maintainingfurniture and equipment to extend their use rather than replacing them.
Modular Design
Flexible Spaces - Designing hotel rooms and common areas withmodular elements that can be easily reconfigured or updated as needed.
Deconstructable Construction - Using construction techniques thatallow materials to be easily dismantled and reused at the end of their lifecycle.
5. Customer Engagement
Sustainability Programs
Guest Participation - Encouraging guests to participate insustainability programs such as towel and linen reuse initiatives, orcontributing to local environmental projects.
Educational Materials - Providing information about the hotel'ssustainability efforts and the benefits of participating in circular economypractices.
Green Certifications
Certification Programs - Pursuing certifications like CII IGBC tovalidate and communicate sustainability efforts to guests.
Continuous Improvement - Regularly reviewing and improvingsustainability practices to maintain and enhance certifications.
6. Innovative Business Models
Sharing Economy
Shared Amenities - Offering shared amenities such as communalkitchens, co-working spaces, and car-sharing services to reduce resource useand provide additional value to guests.
Community Engagement - Hosting events and workshops that promotesustainability and community engagement.
Product-as-a-Service
Leasing Programs - Leasing linens, furniture, and equipment fromsuppliers who take responsibility for maintenance, repair, and eventualrecycling.
Subscription Services - Providing subscription services foramenities like coffee machines, water coolers, and gym equipment, ensuring theyare maintained and upgraded regularly.
By incorporating these strategies, the hospitality industry canmake significant strides toward a more sustainable and circular economy,benefiting both the environment and their business operations and Mother Earth.