“Responsible tourism” is a term that you may have heard recently. Essentially, it refers to the requirement of all operators connected to the tourism industry to take practical action to become more sustainable.

The hospitality industry is one sub-group of the tourism industry that is expected, more than ever, to practise responsible tourism and make sustainable, eco-friendly changes.

 

Why is it important?

Tourism is vital to the economic stability of so many countries, communities and individuals. Tourist destinations attract large numbers of people each year to experience diverse cultures, natural wonders, architecture and pristine waters. Tourism can be a threat to the attractions themselves, as well as the environment in general. Air travel alone contributes tremendously to our overall carbon footprint.

 

Today’s travellers are in search of sustainable tourism

Increasingly, travellers are becoming more aware of the need to seek out responsible organisations to facilitate their travel experiences. They want to know that their purchases and experiences aren’t negatively impacting natural resources, the environment, communities or wildlife.

Responsible tourism covers a vast range of industries, including many in the hospitality arena. Sustainable travellers are in search of eco-friendly accommodation, restaurants, events, products and experiences. Travellers want to know that the businesses they connect with are socially, culturally and environmentally conscious.

How hospitality businesses can be more sustainably responsible

Energy conservation

  • Set goals. Hospitality businesses can reduce their overall energy consumption in a few ways. Setting energy-reduction goals is a motivating and tangible way for a company and its employees to take responsibility and work towards a common goal.
  • Convert to renewable energy sources, such as solar power.
  • Ensure that all equipment such as fridges, dishwashers and freezers are energy-efficient.
  • Reduce your carbon footprint. Look for clever ways to minimise your carbon emissions. BottleCycler crushes glass bottles, storing them safely and efficiently, while our collection service picks them up from your site to be recycled. BottleCycler reduces your waste volume by 80% so that fewer, smaller trucks are required each collection, thus reducing carbon emissions.

Eliminate single-use items

Stop, or significantly reduce the use of single-use, disposable products. Paper napkins, plastic take-away containers, plastic and polystyrene cups and plastic straws are big contributors to waste in the hospitality industry. Keep an eye on State laws as further sustainability measures are enacted.

Some easy changes include switching out bar napkins for reusable coasters and replacing plastic straws with paper alternatives or eliminating straws altogether.

Recycle

Bars consume large amounts of glass, and glass is one of the best materials for recycling. There is really no reason why 100% of the glass used shouldn’t be recycled, but contamination is a big problem, hindering the success of recycling. BottleCycler is the future of glass recycling – the self-contained glass crushing machine removes the risk of contamination. 100% of the glass bottles crushed in a BottleCycler are recycled.

Responsible tourism is vital for your business and our future. To keep up to date with tips, ideas and information relating to sustainability and hospitality, subscribe to our mailing list.