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Writer's pictureZach Ho

Go Green or Go Home: How Hotels Are Saving the Planet One Stay at a Time

Did you know that 72% of Filipino travellers are now willing to pay more for eco-friendly accommodations?  That's right, sustainability is no longer a niche concern – it's a full-blown travel trend, and Filipino tourists are embracing it with open arms. Here's the good news: implementing sustainable practices in your Philippine hotel isn't just good for the planet, it's a smart business decision that can attract new guests, boost your brand image, and even save you money. Ready to transform your hotel into an eco-warrior haven? Let's dive in!



Go Green or Go Home: How Hotels Are Saving the Planet One Stay at a Time
Go Green or Go Home: How Hotels Are Saving the Planet One Stay at a Time


The Sustainability Imperative: More Than Just a Buzzword

The hospitality industry has a significant environmental footprint. From energy consumption and water usage to waste generation, hotels can leave a big mark on the planet. But times are changing. Travelers are becoming increasingly eco-conscious, and destinations worldwide are prioritizing sustainable practices. The Philippines, with its breathtaking natural beauty and commitment to responsible tourism, is no exception.


Meet the Eco-Tourists: Your New Best Guests

Imagine a guest who appreciates stunning sunsets but also wants to minimize their carbon footprint. This is the eco-tourist – a growing segment of travelers who actively seek out hotels that prioritize sustainability. These environmentally conscious guests are not only willing to pay more for eco-friendly stays, but they're also more likely to leave positive reviews, become loyal brand advocates, and recommend your hotel to others.

Think about it: wouldn't you rather attract guests who appreciate the delicate ecosystems surrounding your hotel and actively participate in conserving them? Sustainable practices are a win-win – good for the environment and good for your business.


Competitive Advantage: Standing Out in a Green Wave

The Philippine hotel industry is fiercely competitive. So, how do you make your hotel stand out from the crowd? By embracing sustainability! Implementing eco-friendly practices demonstrates your commitment to environmental responsibility, which resonates deeply with today's travellers.


Here's a real-life example: The award-winning Tao Philippines in Siargao is renowned for its commitment to sustainable practices. They use solar panels to generate electricity, source ingredients from local farmers and offer guests reusable water bottles and bamboo straws. The result? Tao Philippines has garnered a loyal following of eco-conscious travellers and a reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism within the Philippines.


This is just one example of how embracing sustainability can give your hotel a significant competitive edge.


Green Hoteliers: Filipino Success Stories

Let's get inspired by some amazing Philippine hotels leading the way in eco-friendly practices:


  • The Farm at San Benito in Lipa, Batangas: This luxurious wellness resort is a pioneer in sustainable tourism. They feature eco-friendly architecture, on-site organic gardens, and a commitment to waste reduction.

  • El Nido Pangulasian Resort in Palawan: Nestled amidst a breathtaking marine reserve, this award-winning resort champions environmental conservation. They have implemented marine conservation programs, utilize renewable energy sources, and actively support local communities.

These are just a few examples, and there are many more Philippine hotels taking significant strides towards sustainability. The key takeaway? Sustainability is achievable, and it can have a transformative impact on your hotel's success.


From Awareness to Action: Simple Steps to Green Your Hotel

Even small changes can make a big difference. Here are 4 key eco-friendly practices that any hotel can implement, regardless of budget:


1. Embrace Water Conservation: Install low-flow showerheads and faucets, and offer guests the option to reuse towels and linens. This reduces water usage significantly, saving you money on your water bills.

2. Power Down for the Planet: Encourage guests to conserve energy by providing keycard power switches that automatically turn off lights and electronics when guests leave the room.

3. Shine a Light on Sustainability:  Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs. Not only will you reduce your energy consumption, but LEDs also last much longer, saving you money on replacements in the long run.

4. Think Beyond White:  Consider eco-friendly laundry practices. For instance, Allora Linen offers a variety of eco-friendly Hotel Products, that can help your hotel reduce its environmental impact while maintaining the high standards of cleanliness your guests expect.

These are just a starting point. There are many other ways to green your hotel. The important thing is to take that first step and get started!


Beyond the Basics: Going Green the Filipino Way

Sustainability isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Here's how you can incorporate eco-friendly practices that resonate with the local Philippine context:


  • Support Local Farmers:  Source fresh ingredients from nearby farms and fishing communities. This not only reduces your carbon footprint associated with transportation, but it also supports the local economy and allows you to offer guests an authentic culinary experience.

  • Showcase Indigenous Crafts:  Elevate your guest rooms by incorporating locally-made handicrafts and textiles. This adds a unique Filipino touch to your décor while supporting local artisans and preserving cultural traditions.

  • Offer Nature Tours with a Purpose:  Partner with local conservation organizations to offer eco-tours that educate guests about the importance of protecting the surrounding environment. This allows guests to connect with nature while contributing to its preservation.

By embracing these practices, you demonstrate your commitment to sustainable tourism and showcase the beauty of the Philippines in an eco-conscious way.


Conclusion: A Greener Future for Philippine Hospitality

The future of Philippine tourism is undeniably green. By adopting sustainable practices, your hotel can become a leader in this exciting movement. The benefits are clear: a healthier planet, happy eco-conscious guests, a positive brand image, and potentially, even some cost savings.


Ready to join the green wave?  The experts at Allora Linen are here to help you find eco-friendly solutions for your hotel, from high-quality linens made with sustainable practices to water-saving laundry equipment.


Together, let's make the Philippine hospitality industry a beacon of sustainability and ensure a vibrant future for tourism in this beautiful archipelago.

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