Four smart ways hotels can cut plastic waste

Every year, the hospitality industry produces a staggering 150 million tons of plastic waste. That figure, mainly driven by single-use items from food and drink consumption, bathroom toiletries, and laundry packaging unsustainable. With travelers increasingly prioritizing environmental responsibility when choosing where to stay, the pressure is on to embrace meaningful change.

The good news is embracing sustainability practices doesn’t require a complete overhaul of operations. It starts with thoughtful choices, particularly around guest amenities. Here are four impactful strategies the hospitality sector can adopt right now to reduce waste and lead
the way in sustainable tourism.

1. Ditch the plastic in dry amenities

The days of plastic toothbrushes and combs are numbered. Forward-thinking hospitality businesses are turning to plastic-free alternatives made from bamboo, strawboard, or other bio-based materials. From solid shaving soaps and toothpaste pills to recyclable paper sewing kits and cotton-based slippers, it’s possible to deliver high-quality guest experiences while reducing plastic use to zero.

And the best part? These amenities don’t sacrifice style. Designed with elegance and function in mind, they align perfectly with the growing demand for eco-luxury.

2. Don’t overlook the packaging

Even sustainable products can fall short if they come wrapped in environmentally harmful packaging. The solution? Switch to packaging that’s recyclable and responsibly sourced. Think unbleached FSC paper and soy-based ink. Not only do these options reduce environmental impact, but they also offer a refined, natural aesthetic that guests will surely appreciate.

3. Embrace larger formats and safe refilling systems

Larger dispensers are not only more sustainable, they’re also more cost-effective in the long run. But safety matters too, especially in the post-pandemic era.

Hotels should look for dispenser systems that are sealed, hygienic, and transparent in origin. Some of the most innovative options on the market now feature sealed refill pouches that eliminate contamination risks while using significantly less plastic, with up to 97% less compared to mini bottles. With intuitive, quick-swap refill systems, these solutions also reduce the burden on housekeeping teams.

4. Rethink liquids entirely with solid cosmetics

Solid cosmetics like shampoo bars, conditioners, and body washes are having a moment, and for good reason. They use up to nine times less water during production and completely eliminate the need for plastic containers. Not only are they great for the planet, but they also add a unique, artisanal touch to the guest experience.

For hotels looking to take it one step further, there are programs that collect gently used soaps and recycle them for humanitarian purposes, further reducing waste while supporting important causes.

Sustainability in hospitality isn’t a trend: it’s a responsibility. By prioritizing smart, planet-friendly choices in guest amenities, packaging, and refilling systems, hotels can dramatically cut their environmental footprint without compromising on comfort or quality.

The shift toward sustainable hospitality starts with small, intentional changes but the impact can be huge.

The article Four smart ways hotels can cut plastic waste first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.