As technology continues to transform the hospitality industry, it’s also creating new opportunities for hotels to operate more sustainably. Yet, despite progress, the global hotel sector still faces a major challenge in reducing its environmental impact.
A 2023 Sustainable Tourism Journal study revealed that hotels are responsible for around 1% of total global carbon emissions. On top of that, each hotel guest generates about 1kg of waste per day. The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance warns that to meet essential global targets, hotels must cut carbon emissions by 66% per room by 2030 and by 90% by 2050.
So far, progress has been steady but slow. According to Cornell University’s Hotel Sustainability Benchmarking Index, since 2017, hotels have achieved only a 3.3% decrease in energy use and a 3.73% reduction in water use.
The challenge lies in balancing guest comfort with sustainability — a delicate act between delivering premium experiences and reducing environmental footprints. But with the rise of digitalisation and smart systems, hotels now have the tools to make sustainability both practical and profitable.
Digitalisation: The First Step to Greener Operations
The shift to digital processes has already made a big impact. From check-in and bookings to guest communications, hospitality technology is helping hotels reduce paper use and improve efficiency.
By integrating their systems with a Property Management System (PMS), hotels can streamline daily operations and communicate digitally with both guests and staff. In-room tablets and mobile apps give guests instant access to hotel services, reducing the need for printed materials and unnecessary waste.
Cloud-based platforms now enable hotels to connect multiple systems — from housekeeping and maintenance to energy and water management. This level of integration not only improves operations but also supports sustainability goals.
Smart, Sustainable Systems
Many hotels are turning to IoT (Internet of Things) and AI-powered systems to become smarter and greener. Cloud computing supports energy and water optimisation through:
- Smart irrigation and leak detection systems
- Automated lighting and temperature control
- Rainwater harvesting and waste tracking
Some hotels are also installing solar panels, adopting electric vehicles, and providing charging stations to reduce their carbon footprint even further.
Beyond these operational changes, hotels are showcasing their green efforts through dedicated sustainability webpages, social media campaigns, and even virtual reality tours that highlight eco-friendly features. This transparency strengthens their reputation and builds trust with environmentally conscious guests.
The Business Case for Sustainability
Going green isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s also good business. Research shows that 71% of travellers want to stay in sustainable accommodation and are more likely to book with hotels that can prove their commitment.
Sustainability also improves the bottom line. The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance notes that eco-conscious hotels typically achieve at least 20% greater resource efficiency, reducing both energy and water costs. They also stay ahead of local and national environmental regulations, avoiding future compliance issues.
By investing in sustainability, hotels enhance their brand value, attract loyal guests, and increase profitability — all while reducing their environmental footprint.
A Win-Win for Hotels and the Planet
Modern, cloud-based hotel management systems now make it easier than ever to implement sustainable practices. They offer the flexibility, insight, and automation hoteliers need to reach environmental targets without compromising guest experience.
Sustainability in hospitality is no longer a niche — it’s the standard. The use of technology not only helps protect the planet but also drives efficiency, lowers costs, and creates more meaningful experiences for guests.
When hotels go green, everyone wins — the business, the guests, and the planet.
For original article and reference please follow link: https://www.hftp.org/news/4123013/sustainable-hospitality-using-technology-to-go-green-means-more-green-for-hoteliers