It’s one of the most common myths within the lodging industry – in order for hotels to go green, they must spend a lot of green. In simplest terms, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Today, there are many cost saving alternatives within the sector, especially when it comes to property renovations. For example, by investing in furniture refinishing, re-upholstery and remanufacturing, hoteliers can save up to 80 percent on total expenditure when compared to buying brand new assets.
To gain further insight into other cost-effective tactics, and the benefits of sustainability, this month’s sustainable spotlight shines on Kristen Mckenzie of Hotels Combined. Hotels Combined is a popular travel booking site that recognizes the rising consumer demand for green lodging, and subsequently, created its educational online resource, Green Hotels & Responsible Tourism to “make travel fun, rewarding and responsible.”
Read on for our full interview with Kristen:
The Refinishing Touch (TRT): How have you seen the industry’s commitment to green initiatives change over your company’s history?
Kristen Mckenzie (KM): Green initiatives are becoming more common place than ever before. In large part, this is due to consumer demand. Not only are travelers looking for an ideal location and low price, but they are also looking at recycling, towel linen reuse options and more. Today’s consumer is looking for guilt-free options, even while traveling.
TRT: Which challenges do hotels face when adopting green practices, and how is the industry addressing these?
KM: There’s a misconception amongst some hoteliers that green practices are difficult and costly. With continued education and advocacy, we can change this way of thinking. For instance, offering email receipts at checkout not only saves on the cost of buying paper, but it also helps slow the rate of deforestation. Small actions that are both sustainable and cost-effective build up, and can really improve a hotel both internally and externally.
TRT: What gives you hope when it comes to the adoption of green and environmentally-friendly practices?
KM: Today, consumers expect their hotel to be environmentally-friendly. It’s become a necessary property feature along with clean beds and good customer service. Not only is going green good for the earth, but it’s also good for business. It’s only a matter of time before more hoteliers realize this and begin to act accordingly.
For more information on Hotels Combined and Green Hotels & Responsible Tourism, please visit the corresponding websites here, and here.
If you are interested in seeing what The Refinishing Touch and our eco-friendly, cost saving furniture renovation services can do for you and your company, please visit our website and request a free quote today.