The statistics are clear: travellers care about the environment, sustainability and eco-friendly practices. According to Statistica, when surveyed in 2022, over 80 % of global travellers said that sustainable tourism was important to them and that they were willing to adopt sustainable travel incentives. In 2024, over half of global travellers said they are looking for accommodation that combines comfort with innovative sustainability features.
What’s more, 73% of travellers are more likely to choose accommodation providers that advertise sustainability practices, and 65% of travellers would feel better about staying in a particular accommodation if it met specific sustainability requirements.
So, how does this affect the humble host renting out a property or three? Quite a lot, but fortunately, you can do quite a few things to make your accommodation eco-friendly.
1. LED lights
If you haven’t already, switch to LED lights. You’ll save money, they’ll last much longer, and they will be far better for the environment.
2. Chemical-free cleaning products
Switching to chemical-free cleaning products is easy. You’ll find excellent options on any supermarket shelf, and your guests will appreciate the lack of chemicals in the air. Plus, they usually come in much better packaging, so leaving your stash of cleaning products in the laundry or kitchen will be far more presentable.
3. Soap and shampoo dispensers
Eliminate the need to purchase multiple plastic bottles by installing shower and soap dispensers in your bathroom and refilling them with bulk supplies, as required.
4. Supply a compost bin
A handy compost bin in the kitchen will encourage your guests to recycle their food scraps and feel good about putting something back into the earth.
5. Provide canvas shopping bags
Leave your guests a supply of canvas tote bags for their grocery shopping to encourage them to think twice about purchasing extra bags for packaging while out and about.
6. Offer plastic alternatives
Instead of leaving single-use plastics such as Glad wrap and plastic bags, offer alternatives such as reusable bags and glass storage jars. If you supply picnic plates and cutlery, consider eco-family options such as bamboo cutlery and biodegradable plates.
7. Limit linen and towel usage
The more linen and towels you supply for guests, the more they’ll use, so think carefully about what you feel is acceptable usage, then set a limit. (Also, keep your linen cupboard locked to avoid guests overusing supplies). Generally, one to two towels plus a hand towel per person are usually acceptable.
8. Eco-friendly signage
Leave an attractive site explaining your eco-friendly policy and encouraging guests to get on board and be mindful of the usage during their stay. You can have signs reminding them to turn off lighting and air-conditioning, to be aware of water usage with showers and washing, or to be mindful of wastage during their stay.
Need help managing your holiday home rental?
If you’d like to generate more income without the hard work, contact Cloudbnb today.
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We do it all:
- Property listing management & marketing – Check-in & customer communications
- Cleaning, laundry & maintenance – Ensuring that 5-star feel every time
- Styling & photography – Guest vetting – Keeping your property safe and secury
- Property insurance
