How data can help you meet travelers’ sustainability needs
For hoteliers looking to boost their green credentials, the first challenge is knowing where to start. That’s where data can be a powerful ally, showing where to focus time and money to make the greatest impact.
Though becoming eco-friendly might be a desirable goal on a hotelier’s agenda, a complete overhaul of property, processes and service providers is usually out of the question. Deciding on specific areas to target is likely to be the best course of action.
Using data to inform the changes needed to make lodging more sustainable is a simple way to meet eco-friendly aspirations, while making the transition required as efficient and cost effective as possible.
Statistical evidence offers hoteliers a clear indication of where they’re wasting resources and could make changes.
These audits can be carried out efficiently using devices, such as Internet of Things-enabled technology that will passively collect data. Investing in technology and big data management systems can be a worthwhile outlay for more efficient and cost-saving practices in future.
HOW TO TURN DATA INTO ACTION
Evaluations will provide statistical insights into the baseline of a hotel’s use of products and services. This will help hoteliers plan reduction strategies and put in place better management plans for energy, water and more.
Data now plays a key role in helping hoteliers allocate the resources required to create a more sustainable business.
Reduction strategies might include:
- Installing mercury-free fluorescent bulbs or LED lights equipped with occupancy sensors in low-traffic areas, such as storage rooms, hallways and bathrooms.
- Installing light-level sensors to increase and decrease bulb brightness in rooms.
- Installing occupancy sensors for heating and AC temperature adjustment.
- Implementing a green purchase policy to ensure facilities are utilizing reusable or recyclable options.
- Installing refillable dispensers for toiletry products.
- Offering incentives for guests’ reuse of linens.
- Going paperless with digital payment solutions, such as the HRS Touchless Stay solution, part of the Lodging as a Service (LaaS) platform.
- Offering recycling options to guests or replacing all waste receptacles with recyclable disposal options.
- Promoting sustainable transport for hotel guests.
- Offering natural and organic, free-trade options for food, drink and toiletries, preferably with biodegradable packaging.
- Sourcing food locally and seasonally.
- Composting waste food or donating leftovers to local and national food banks and programs.
- Using smart irrigation systems for any green areas.
- Using renewable energy sources, such as solar panels.
Encourage hotel guests to support
Applying for sustainable certifications can help hoteliers evaluate where they have more work to do to become more eco-friendly and energy efficient, while also ensuring their hard work is promoted to customers and partners.
And once armed with the knowledge of where improvements can be made, hoteliers are becoming increasingly innovative – and successful – in their solutions. For an inspirational insight into the evolution of the hotel industry, read our article on Green hotel concepts of the future.
Harnessing data for our hotel partners
The HRS platform is a data-led solution, with Green Stay information easily accessible across HRS booking channels for the booker to compare accommodation options. It provides transparency on each hotel’s ecological footprint, allowing those with a focus on sustainability to stand out to a lucrative audience of corporate clients.
Find out more about HRS’s intelligent data solutions.
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