Positive Change: How To Do More

Sustainability In Hospitality

In an era of eco-friendly consumers,  sustainability is more important than ever in the hospitality industry. Lots of venues are pivoting towards sustainable practices – driven not only by consumer demand but also the need to reduce our impact on the planet for future generations. 

6 Impressive Stats of Consumer Views on Sustainability

The rising tide of sustainability is not just a corporate push; it’s primarily propelled by consumers. Just look at the findings here to see the how important sustainability is to your guests:

1. A 2021 Accenture study revealed that 60% of consumers prefer to buy from companies conscious about their environmental impact
2. According to a Nielsen survey in 2020, 73% of global consumers are willing to modify their consumption habits to reduce environmental damage
3. A CGS study showed that 68% of consumers wouldn't mind paying a premium for sustainable products
4. McKinsey's 2021 survey reported that 66% of consumers keep sustainability in mind while shopping
5. The National Retail Federation found that 75% of consumers prefer to shop from retailers with clear sustainability policies
6. An IBM survey conducted in 2021 found that 57% of consumers deem it crucial for companies to take a stand on environmental issues.

Challenges Of Sustainability

Sustainability is a fantastic goal, but achieving it can be fraught with challenges for venues like yours in the hospitality industry.

Fear of Financial Cost

Many businesses worry about the upfront investment required for sustainability initiatives, fearing that such measures could strain their bottom line. However, sustainability can often result in long-term savings.

Lack of Expertise

Many businesses lack the necessary in-house expertise to launch and manage sustainability initiatives, leading to concerns about the additional cost of hiring external consultants.

Fear of Negative Impact

Some businesses fear that sustainability initiatives could potentially disrupt their operations, such as reducing productivity or causing supply chain issues.

Perception Risk

Some companies are wary of taking sustainability measures due to the perceived reputational risks, like accusations of greenwashing or the fear of not doing enough. But perfection shouldn’t be the enemy of good – any progress is important.

Regulatory Uncertainty

As sustainability regulations continue to evolve, many businesses worry about the potential implications of new policies or laws.

Lack of Consumer Demand

Despite the increasing consumer preference for sustainable products and services, some businesses believe that demand isn't yet strong enough to justify the investment.

Our Top Practical Tips to Become More Sustainable

Sustainability doesn’t have to be a monumental task. Here are our practical tips to make a positive impact:

Identify Sustainable Suppliers

Align yourself with suppliers that share your sustainability goals. This can be a key strategy in your sustainability efforts and an excellent point to communicate to your consumers.

Reduce Waste

Introduce recycling programs, provide refillable amenities instead of single-use plastics, and transition to compostable or biodegradable utensils and packaging. By reducing waste, you not only contribute to a healthier planet but also improve your brand's reputation among eco-conscious consumers.

Make It Easy For Customers to Recycle

Offer clear, well-marked recycling bins and educate customers about what can and can't be recycled. This simple step can go a long way in promoting sustainable behaviour.

Repurpose Food Waste

Transform food scraps into garnishes or find other creative uses for them. For instance, offer used coffee grounds to customers who can repurpose them for composting or creating beauty products.

Switch To Energy-Efficient Lighting

Transition to energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce energy consumption and cut down your utility costs.

In conclusion, embracing sustainability isn’t merely an ethical decision; it's a smart business strategy in a world increasingly concerned about the environment. Businesses that align themselves with this shift in consumer consciousness not only contribute to the health of our planet but also enhance their brand reputation and profitability.

Remember, it’s not enough to just be sustainable; it’s equally important to communicate these efforts to your customers and staff. This raises awareness and inspires others to adopt eco-friendly habits. So, take those green steps and let the world know. Here's to a greener future in hospitality!