Sustainability in Hospitality: Effectively Communicating Green Initiatives to Guests
Author: Chelsea Curran
While sustainability in hospitality has been a major focus for some time, it’s more important than ever for hotels, resorts and restaurants around the world today. As more people become conscious of their environmental impact, it’s crucial for hospitality businesses to effectively communicate their green initiatives to guests, investors and the public. This not only helps to showcase the hotel or restaurant's commitment to sustainability, but also educates customers and the public on how they can contribute to a more sustainable future.
There are four ways in which hospitality brands can effectively communicate their green initiatives to guests. These include:
Clear & Concise Signage: While there are several ways in which hotels and resorts can effectively communicate their green initiatives to guests, one of the most important is through clear and concise signage throughout the property. This can include information about energy-saving practices, recycling programs, water conservation measures and other sustainability efforts. By prominently displaying this information in common areas such as lobbies, guest rooms and dining areas, hotels can raise awareness among guests and encourage them to participate in eco-friendly initiatives.
Staff Training & Knowledge Sharing: Another effective way to communicate green initiatives to customers is through staff training. Hotel and restaurant employees should be knowledgeable about the business’s sustainability practices and be able to answer any questions that guests may have. Hotel staff members can also provide tips and suggestions on how guests can reduce their own environmental impact during their stay, such as using towels and linens responsibly, turning off lights and electronics when not in use and recycling.
Eco-Friendly Amenities & Activities for Guests: Hotels can also offer eco-friendly amenities and activities to guests to further promote their sustainability efforts. This can include organic, locally sourced food options in the hotel restaurant, eco-friendly toiletries in guest rooms and guided tours or excursions that highlight the natural beauty and conservation efforts of the surrounding area. By providing these green options, hotels can show guests that they are committed to protecting the environment and preserving the local community.
Utilize Your PR & Marketing Teams: Last, but certainly not least – don’t forget to utilize your PR and marketing teams to help broadcast your sustainability efforts to a wider audience. Your PR team can share ongoing updates and efforts through strategic media relations, influencer partnerships, thought leadership opportunities and more. Additionally, be sure to share relevant green initiatives through social media efforts – both organic and paid. It’s also key to work with your marketing teams to ensure green efforts are communicated effectively on your website, in e-newsletters and more. By sharing updates and information about sustainability efforts online, hotels and restaurants can reach potential customers before they even arrive. This can also help attract environmentally conscious people seeking eco-friendly options.
Overall, effectively communicating green initiatives is essential for hotels, resorts and restaurants that prioritize sustainability. By using a combination of signage, staff training, digital platforms and eco-friendly amenities, hotels can educate and inspire guests and others to be more environmentally conscious. This not only benefits the environment, but also strengthens the brand’s reputation as a responsible and eco-friendly destination.