New regulations and guest pressures encourage green changes in hospitality

As a leader in sustainable furniture asset management for the government, hotels and higher education, we are always pleased when we hear local, state and federal governments are moving to enact a law or regulation that would decrease overall environmental impact.

Most recently, we are watching a law that, in some states, would require plumbing fixtures that carry water to contain a maximum .25 percent lead – a large decrease from the existing eight percent requirement. This reduction would allow for manufacturers to seek out alternative materials that are more sustainable and cost-effective.

In addition to the new lead regulation, expected to hit law books in 2014, we’ve seen our hospitality customers embracing other environmentally-friendly alternatives, including fluorescent or LED lighting, recycling programs, and low-flow water fixtures. Many are utilizing these simple changes in conjunction with our furniture asset management and refinishing services, which save our customers on average, 80 percent in costs and 90 percent in carbon emissions, when compared to buying new furniture.

And don’t just take our word for it – hotel guests are holding their choice of lodging accommodates to even higher standards. An Expedia and MindClick study, released this year, found that of the 5,000 US respondents, 80 percent of guests were aware of hotels’ sustainability efforts and 90 percent said they would choose to stay at a hotel that implements sustainable purchases, as well as sustainable operations.

Are you curious how The Refinishing Touch’s services can minimize costs and environmental impact at your property? Email us for a free quote or to discuss how we can transform your property today.