Accommodation Going Green
Hotel Innovations
Properties invest in sustainability:
Energy Efficiency
- Solar panel installations
- Geothermal heating/cooling
- Smart room controls
- LED conversion programs
Water Conservation
- Greywater recycling systems
- Low-flow fixtures standard
- Linen reuse programs
- Rainwater harvesting
Waste Reduction
- Bulk amenity dispensers
- Composting programs
- Local sourcing priorities
- Plastic elimination campaigns
Best Practice Example
Hôtel du Palais (Biarritz) demonstrates luxury sustainability:
- 60% energy reduction through renovation
- Seawater cooling system
- Staff sustainability training
- Guest education programs
Manager explains: "Luxury clients expect sustainability. They won't accept paper straws in plastic cups or token gestures. Comprehensive commitment required."
Alternative Accommodation Leadership
Smaller properties often lead innovation:
Eco-Gîtes Movement
- Straw bale construction
- Solar self-sufficiency
- Permaculture gardens
- Greywater systems
Camping Evolution
- Glamping reducing land impact
- Natural pools replacing chlorinated
- Dark sky preservation
- Rewilding unused areas